Y12 Jeanie Chan - Working with Children

My CAS experiences provided profound opportunities for growth, aligning with IB’s Learning Outcomes through service, collaboration, and reflection.

Collaboration & Planning
Organizing our CAS Challenge Week required teamwork and initiative. I created a shared Google Sheet to streamline communication, coordinating outreach to non-profit organisations like Box of Hope . While we faced challenges such as delayed responses from various organisations, I learned the importance of persistence and proactive planning. This process underscored the value of clear roles and adaptability in group projects.

Service & Ethical Awareness
At Box of Hope, I inspected and repacked donation boxes, recognising how small actions contribute to larger global efforts. Many boxes lacked essential items, emphasising the ethical responsibility of donors. Speaking with the founders revealed the organisation’s reliance on volunteers, deepening my appreciation for indirect service and its far-reaching impact.

Education & Empathy
Volunteering at Po Leung Kuk Li Tsui Chung Sing Memorial Kindergarten offered insights into early childhood development. Observing teachers’ patience and creative methods, like using songs and games, highlighted the importance of experiential learning over rote memorisation. Interacting with the children, I was struck by their familiarity with technology, prompting reflection on how digital exposure shapes young minds today. At Changing Young Lives Foundation, I tutored primary students from low-income families. A Year 1 boy’s struggle with excessive homework revealed systemic pressures on underprivileged youth. Adapting my explanations to his learning style taught me the value of patience and individualised support. This experience contrasted sharply with my own privileged education, fostering gratitude and a desire to advocate for equitable learning opportunities.

These experiences strengthened my communication, empathy, and global perspective. From logistical planning to hands-on service, I have learnt through CAS that meaningful change begins with awareness, collaboration, and a commitment to ethical action - both abroad and even within my own community right here in Hong Kong!