Earth Adventure for Young Leaders
Why
Preserving the health and diversity of our planet’s ecosystems is essential to ensure the continued prosperity and well-being of future generations. The exploration of nature-based STEAM solutions lays the groundwork for sustainable development and a harmonious co-existence of all life on Earth.
The CASE Earth School International Study Program fosters a sense of social and environmental responsibility for the next generation of STEAM-skilled leaders. By recognising the interconnectedness of the environment, the economy, and society, CASE Earth School inspires students to drive positive change for a sustainable future, regardless of their study path.
Program Framework
The program framework offers three key pillars including Rainforest Immersion, Sustainability Insights, and Personal Growth. All of this is supported by Dr Tony Wagner’s Seven Survival Skills.
Returning from the expedition, students will have gained the necessary skills to think critically and inquisitively, enabling them to navigate their future with confidence and adaptability.
Earth Adventure for Young Leaders
Students will explore Sabah, Malaysia on the island of Borneo, and immerse in Earth’s most biodiverse ecosystem – the tropical rainforest. Here, students will learn the crucial skills necessary for achieving sustainable development including critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, preparing them for diverse future paths.
International Academic Credentials
CASE Earth School International Study Program is accredited and approved in the USA as an Honors Level College Preparatory course
CASE Earth School Programs are academically accredited and approved in the USA as recognised Honors Level College Preparatory courses. University of California (UC) approval demonstrates these courses are of high academic standard to prepare students for university-level studies. It ensures that CASE Earth School graduates are identified by leading universities as high achieving, university-ready students.
In the competitive landscape of university applications both domestically and internationally, students who complete CASE Earth School International Study Program will differentiate themselves from other applicants.
All graduates of CASE Earth School International Study Program are eligible to receive a 5.0GPA academic transcript upon completion of the program. The registration fee covers ongoing access to the transcript through a secure portal giving students a distinct advantage when applying to universities and jobs.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
CASE Earth School program blends online and in-person exploration of Tony Wagner’s Seven Survival Skills. Duke of Ed participants will learn and be assessed on these skills pre- and post-expedition using structured eLearning. They will also engage in dynamic workshops during their overseas experience.
After this, participants will understand the meaning of these survival skills and how to apply them in their daily lives and future careers.
About CASE
California Association for STEAM Education
The California Association for STEAM Education is a non-profit organization. Headquartered in Cupertino, California. CASE was established by educators, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to advocate excellence in STEAM education through the development and implementation of innovative in-classroom curriculum and extra-curricular education programs.
Aticon is proud to be the exclusive global partner of CASE to co-develop and market the CASE Earth School International Study Program.
Immersive Student Learning Journey
Stage I – Analysis
The Analysis learning stage emphasises rainforest immersion and hands-on biodiversity exploration in the field. Observing wildlife along the Kinabatangan River and while trekking through the lush forests of Danum Valley, students learn about ecosystem fundamentals and human impacts while honing their field research techniques.
Stage II – Synthesis
The Synthesis stage offers a rich contextual learning experience where students gain valuable insights into the complexities of sustainability. Putting their skills into practice through hands-on forestry activities and empowering community sustainability through a reforestation project, students understand the collaborative effort involved in achieving sustainable development.
Stage III – Thesis
The Thesis stage is where students develop and put forth their innovative ideas during the ChallengeX entrepreneurial competition. Modelled after the global X-prize, students are challenged to create a sustainable business plan and design a new environmental monitoring technology that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence.
CASE Special Advisor
Nicole Stott
Ms Nicole Stott, former NASA Aquanaut and Astronaut, is the Special Advisor to CASE. Nicole holds a world record for living under water for 18 days, and is a verteran of two space flights and 104 days working in space on both the ISS and Space Shuttle. Nicole is a believer of the inner space/outer space connection and its power to encourage appreciation and action for our planetary life systems.
Inspirational Speakers
Featuring an array of high achieving and motivational speakers including industry leaders, explorers, conservationists, entrepreneurs, and research scientists. During personalised presentations and special events, students hear directly from our inspirational speakers.
Dr Nurzhafarina Othman
Elephant movement and behavioural ecologist; Director of elephant conservation organisation, Seratu Aatai.
Dr Benoit Goossens
Founder and Director of Danau Girang Field Centre; Conservation biologist and landscape ecologist at Cardiff University.
Dr Siew Te Wong
Wildlife biologist, rainforest ecologist, and founder of Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
Cynthia Ong
Entrepreneur, socio-environmental and community advocate, and Chief Executive Facilitator at Forever Sabah Institute.
Dr Arthur Chung
Entomology researcher and Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests at Sabah Forestry Department.
mPOWER Personal Development
Throughout the expedition students engage in mPOWER modules aimed to equip them with tools to grow resilience and achieve their true potential. Students will learn Positive Intelligence, a concept developed by Stanford University lecturer, Shirzad Chamine.
Students will learn to:
Empathise
Explore
Innovate
Navigate
Activate
CASE Earth School International Study Program
Location: Sabah, Malaysia Borneo
Duration: 13 days on the ground
Open to Students: Years 9, 10, 11 & 12
Dates: June/July School Holidays
Program Schedule*
Day 1
The adventure begins with a flight to Sandakan, connecting via Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur. Sandakan is the second largest city in Sabah and is only a 20-minute drive from Sepilok, known for its forest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. On arrival, students attend the official CASE opening ceremony and welcome celebration.
Day 2
To set the off their adventurous learning, students visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Here they experience recovering wildlife up close, developing their appreciation for Borneo’s unique biodiversity. Guided tours and hands-on activities encourage students to think critically about the impacts that humans have on rainforest habitats.
Day 3
The wildlife encounters continue with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre at feeding time. In this immersive experience, student witness the centre’s rehabilitation efforts first-hand. Touring a nearby forest research facility will open students’ eyes to the vast diversity of life that exists in Borneo, and how to collect and use forest specimens for research.
Day 4
Students travel Sandakan to the impressive Kinabatangan, home to the longest river in Sabah. Cruising along the Kinabatangan River offers students the very best opportunities for wildlife observations. Students also actively participate in the Regrow Borneo Project, contributing to environmental, social, and economic sustainability of a local community, all while learning about ongoing restoration ecology research driving this initiative.
Day 5
After a morning of cultural activities, students depart Kinabatangan and embark on their journey to the pristine rainforest of Danum Valley. Danum Valley is home to Borneo’s oldest rainforests and is the beginning of students’ immersive field adventure. An oil palm plantation site visit along the way offers insight into the sustainable management and best practices of this extensive industry.
Day 6
A full day of rainforest trekking and wildlife observations guided by experts in the field. Students explore the intricate ecosystem dynamics within the lush forests of Danum Valley. With the unique opportunity to conduct comparative daytime and nighttime biodiversity assessments, students develop their species identification and field observation skills.
Day 7
Understanding the delicate balance between human activity and ecosystem health fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. Today, students immerse in hands-on field activities, learning practical environmental monitoring techniques. Developing their scientific sampling and data analysis skills, students apply these methods to measure water quality and estimate carbon stocks.
Day 8
Living as a field researcher, delving deeper into this world, students engage in insect trapping and camera trapping activities. First-hand insight into life as a researcher in the field. Insect photo identification and camera trap analysis further enhances students’ understanding of biodiversity, including species classification and ecological interactions.
Day 9
Departing the iconic landscapes of Danum Valley, students travel to the Lahad Datu airport where they embark on their journey to Kota Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu, colloquially known as KK is Sabah’s state capital and is the main industrial and commercial centre of Sabah dominated by the farming, logging, fishing, forestry, and mining sectors.
Day 10
An elephant behaviour workshop introduces students to the complexities of human-wildlife harmony. Using STEAM concepts, students explore how understanding migratory routes can contribute to community sustainability. In the evening, an inspiring guest speaker event allows students to discover the possibilities that lie ahead.
Day 11
Students visit the University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS) for a day of forestry science immersion. Learning from experts from the Faculty of Tropical Forestry, students engage in hands-on lab activities and put their new knowledge into practice, while gaining further insight to the foundations of sustainable resource management.
Day 12
In the nearby countryside, students meet the team at Forever Sabah Institute, a community outreach organisation dedicated to addressing conservation challenges through innovative solutions. Through a series of reflective activities, students are encouraged to critically analyse challenges experienced by various local communities and consider holistic approaches to sustainability.
Day 13
Showcasing team collaboration, creativity, and entrepreneurial skills, this morning students present their coursework at the CASE ChallengeX finals. Followed by a fun afternoon cultural workshop students try the traditional Batik painting of Borneo and see modern design practices that embrace sustainability. To celebrate their accomplishments throughout the expedition, the CASE Graduation Ceremony completes the final day.
Return Home
Departing to the Kota Kinabalu airport, students reflect on their journey and share memories of their adventures with the friends they have made along the way.
*Proposed program is subject to change.
Parent Testimonials
“Great experience for kids to learn and have fun in a supportive environment. Very impressed with the different activities that have been undertaken and the guest speakers engaged”
“I think [these programs are] a wonderful experience. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone. It starts with the experience of not being at home for 12 days and then all the hands-on activities and experiences the children get to do and be part off is absolutely amazing. Thank you Aticon!”
“It’s a wonderful experience for young people to engage and inspire their desire for learning. It also creates greater independence in young people.”
“It was extremely well organised, and the program was absolutely fantastic. The experiences my child had and the care that was taken to ensure she got the most out of the program and enjoyed her time away was amazing. My daughter loved it and would love to go again. From the very first information evening until the arrival home, the entire process was fantastic and the experiences while away were second to none.”
“Rewarding and enriching life experience for an adolescent. Thank you for the organisation and keeping the students safe while they were away.”
“It provided James with an enriching experience in not only STEM activities but also pushing him out of his comfort zone, growth opportunities, friendships made and such a broad range of activities.”
“My daughter loved every minute. She found different areas of interest and met so many likeminded people – she had a fabulous time and wears her ‘wings’ with pride. She made some great friends, learnt so much and was exposed to some amazing learning opportunities.”
“Very well organized and it was an experience of a lifetime for our child.”
“Superbly organized and kept the students very busy. Our son barely called us at all, he said he was too busy and having the time of his life. Socially, it was a fantastic to be with a group of positive kids. This was a fabulous experience that teenagers need – combining social and educational in a really fun way.”
“My daughter felt safe and was in good professional care at all times. The staff were very friendly and approachable. It’s been a pleasure to deal with Aticon. The staff are very understanding. Efforts to keep costs to a minimum and COVID guarantees were appreciated. The program offered a valuable experience to understand what STEAM in a [new] environment has to offer. Excellent stretch exercise for young women to respond and engage in new situations outside their normal comfort zones.”
Student Testimonials
“I learnt a lot about myself and the people who were here with me. In addition, I learnt so much I didn’t know and expanded my knowledge. There was so much to do, definitely something for everyone. I had a great time.”
“I went this trip to get out of my comfort zone and I did in multiple activities. If there was a problem on my mind, I was able to talk about it and felt supported. There was a wider range of activities, and we got involved in all parts.”
“All the Aticon Staff was so nice, and I loved all the Group Managers. I made so many memories that I’ll never forget. I have grown so much mentally and I’m so much more confident now compared to day 1.”
“It was amazing and exceeded my expectations greatly. It was one of the best experiences of my life. It was amazing!”
“We learnt how to problem solve successfully and use a growth mindset through the help of the growth mantras and the team challenges.”
“I loved this experience as all the students and staff were supportive, kind and so inspiring. The activities were so much fun, and we learnt so much. I’m really sad I had to leave but the relationships I’ve made will last a lifetime.”
“My time and experience thoroughly exceeded my expectations as the relationships, teamwork and experiences were unparalleled to anything I have ever had before. The guidance and support of my Group Manger helped me to overcome my initial fear and apprehension allowing for me to grow and strive in many personal ways. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity and the honour of being taught and led by kind, honest and caring people.”
“I believe I learnt very valuable leadership skills, which I will take back to school and throughout my university career. I also developed my communication skills. This will help in many areas moving forward.”
Cooperative Program Partners
Earth Adventure for Young Leaders
Why
Preserving the health and diversity of our planet’s ecosystems is essential to ensure the continued prosperity and well-being of future generations. The exploration of nature-based STEAM solutions lays the groundwork for sustainable development and a harmonious co-existence of all life on Earth.
The CASE Earth School International Study Program fosters a sense of social and environmental responsibility for the next generation of STEAM-skilled leaders. By recognising the interconnectedness of the environment, the economy, and society, CASE Earth School inspires students to drive positive change for a sustainable future, regardless of their study path.
Program Framework
The program framework offers three key pillars including Rainforest Immersion, Sustainability Insights, and Personal Growth. All of this is supported by Dr Tony Wagner’s Seven Survival Skills.
Returning from the expedition, students will have gained the necessary skills to think critically and inquisitively, enabling them to navigate their future with confidence and adaptability.
Earth Adventure for Young Leaders
Students will explore Sabah, Malaysia on the island of Borneo, and immerse in Earth’s most biodiverse ecosystem – the tropical rainforest. Here, students will learn the crucial skills necessary for achieving sustainable development including critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, preparing them for diverse future paths.
International Academic Credentials
CASE Earth School International Study Program is accredited and approved in the USA as an Honors Level College Preparatory course
CASE Earth School Programs are academically accredited and approved in the USA as recognised Honors Level College Preparatory courses. University of California (UC) approval demonstrates these courses are of high academic standard to prepare students for university-level studies. It ensures that CASE Earth School graduates are identified by leading universities as high achieving, university-ready students.
In the competitive landscape of university applications both domestically and internationally, students who complete CASE Earth School International Study Program will differentiate themselves from other applicants.
All graduates of CASE Earth School International Study Program are eligible to receive a 5.0GPA academic transcript upon completion of the program. The registration fee covers ongoing access to the transcript through a secure portal giving students a distinct advantage when applying to universities and jobs.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
CASE Earth School program blends online and in-person exploration of Tony Wagner’s Seven Survival Skills. Duke of Ed participants will learn and be assessed on these skills pre- and post-expedition using structured eLearning. They will also engage in dynamic workshops during their overseas experience.
After this, participants will understand the meaning of these survival skills and how to apply them in their daily lives and future careers.
About CASE
California Association for STEAM Education
The California Association for STEAM Education is a non-profit organization. Headquartered in Cupertino, California. CASE was established by educators, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to advocate excellence in STEAM education through the development and implementation of innovative in-classroom curriculum and extra-curricular education programs.
Aticon is proud to be the exclusive global partner of CASE to co-develop and market the CASE Earth School International Study Program.
Immersive Student Learning Journey
Stage I – Analysis
The Analysis learning stage emphasises rainforest immersion and hands-on biodiversity exploration in the field. Observing wildlife along the Kinabatangan River and while trekking through the lush forests of Danum Valley, students learn about ecosystem fundamentals and human impacts while honing their field research techniques.
Stage II – Synthesis
The Synthesis stage offers a rich contextual learning experience where students gain valuable insights into the complexities of sustainability. Putting their skills into practice through hands-on forestry activities and empowering community sustainability through a reforestation project, students understand the collaborative effort involved in achieving sustainable development.
Stage III – Thesis
The Thesis stage students is where students develop and put forth their innovative ideas during the ChallengeX entrepreneurial competition. Modelled after the global X-prize, students are challenged to create a sustainable business plan and design a new environmental monitoring technology that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence.
CASE Special Advisor
Nicole Stott
Ms Nicole Stott, former NASA Aquanaut and Astronaut, is the Special Advisor to CASE. Nicole holds a world record for living under water for 18 days, and is a verteran of two space flights and 104 days working in space on both the ISS and Space Shuttle. Nicole is a believer of the inner space/outer space connection and its power to encourage appreciation and action for our planetary life systems.
Inspirational Speakers
Featuring an array of high achieving and motivational speakers including industry leaders, explorers, conservationists, entrepreneurs, and research scientists. During personalised presentations and special events, students hear directly from our inspirational speakers.
Dr Nurzhafarina Othman
Elephant movement and behavioural ecologist; Director of elephant conservation organisation, Seratu Aatai.
Dr Benoit Goossens
Founder and Director of Danau Girang Field Centre; Conservation biologist and landscape ecologist at Cardiff University.
Dr Siew Te Wong
Wildlife biologist, rainforest ecologist, and founder of Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
Cynthia Ong
Entrepreneur, socio-environmental and community advocate, and Chief Executive Facilitator at Forever Sabah Institute.
Dr Arthur Chung
Entomology researcher and Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests at Sabah Forestry Department.
mPOWER Personal Development
Throughout the expedition students engage in mPOWER modules aimed to equip them with tools to grow resilience and achieve their true potential. Students will learn Positive Intelligence, a concept developed by Stanford University lecturer, Shirzad Chamine
Students will learn to:
Empathise
Explore
Innovate
Navigate
Activate
CASE Earth School International Study Program
Location: Sabah, Malaysia Borneo
Duration: 13 days on the ground
Open to Students: Years 9, 10, 11 & 12
Dates: June/July School Holidays
Program Schedule*
Day 1
The adventure begins with a flight to Sandakan, connecting via Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur. Sandakan is the second largest city in Sabah and is only a 20-minute drive from Sepilok, known for its forest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. On arrival, students attend the official CASE opening ceremony and welcome celebration.
Day 2
To set the off their adventurous learning, students visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Here they experience recovering wildlife up close, developing their appreciation for Borneo’s unique biodiversity. Guided tours and hands-on activities encourage students to think critically about the impacts that humans have on rainforest habitats.
Day 3
The wildlife encounters continue with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre at feeding time. In this immersive experience, student witness the centre’s rehabilitation efforts first-hand. Touring a nearby forest research facility will open students’ eyes to the vast diversity of life that exists in Borneo, and how to collect and use forest specimens for research.
Day 4
Students travel Sandakan to the impressive Kinabatangan, home to the longest river in Sabah. Cruising along the Kinabatangan River offers students the very best opportunities for wildlife observations. Students also actively participate in the Regrow Borneo Project, contributing to environmental, social, and economic sustainability of a local community, all while learning about ongoing restoration ecology research driving this initiative.
Day 5
After a morning of cultural activities, students depart Kinabatangan and embark on their journey to the pristine rainforest of Danum Valley. Danum Valley is home to Borneo’s oldest rainforests and is the beginning of students’ immersive field adventure. An oil palm plantation site visit along the way offers insight into the sustainable management and best practices of this extensive industry.
Day 6
A full day of rainforest trekking and wildlife observations guided by experts in the field. Students explore the intricate ecosystem dynamics within the lush forests of Danum Valley. With the unique opportunity to conduct comparative daytime and nighttime biodiversity assessments, students develop their species identification and field observation skills.
Day 7
Understanding the delicate balance between human activity and ecosystem health fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. Today, students immerse in hands-on field activities, learning practical environmental monitoring techniques. Developing their scientific sampling and data analysis skills, students apply these methods to measure water quality and estimate carbon stocks.
Day 8
Living as a field researcher, delving deeper into this world, students engage in insect trapping and camera trapping activities. First-hand insight into life as a researcher in the field. Insect photoidentification and camera trap analysis further enhances students’ understanding of biodiversity, including species classification and ecological interactions.
Day 9
Departing the iconic landscapes of Danum Valley, students travel to the Lahad Datu airport where they embark on their journey to Kota Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu, colloquially known as KK is Sabah’s state capital and is the main industrial and commercial centre of Sabah dominated by the farming, logging, fishing, forestry, and mining sectors.
Day 10
An elephant behaviour workshop introduces students to the complexities of human-wildlife harmony. Using STEAM concepts, students explore how understanding migratory routes can contribute to community sustainability. In the evening, an inspiring guest speaker event allows students to discover the possibilities that lie ahead.
Day 11
Students visit the University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS) for a day of forestry science immersion. Learning from experts from the Faculty of Tropical Forestry, students engage in hands-on lab activities and put their new knowledge into practice, while gaining further insight to the foundations of sustainable resource management.
Day 12
In the nearby countryside, students meet the team at Forever Sabah Institute, a community outreach organisation dedicated to addressing conservation challenges through innovative solutions. Through a series of reflective activities, students are encouraged to critically analyse challenges experienced by various local communities and consider holistic approaches to sustainability.
Day 13
Showcasing team collaboration, creativity, and entrepreneurial skills, this morning students present their coursework at the CASE ChallengeX finals. Followed by a fun afternoon cultural workshop students try the traditional Batik painting of Borneo and see modern design practices that embrace sustainability. To celebrate their accomplishments throughout the expedition, the CASE Graduation Ceremony completes the final day.
Return Home
Departing to the Kota Kinabalu airport, students reflect on their journey and share memories of their adventures with the friends they have made along the way.
*Proposed program is subject to change.
Parent Testimonials
“Great experience for kids to learn and have fun in a supportive environment. Very impressed with the different activities that have been undertaken and the guest speakers engaged”
“I think [these programs are] a wonderful experience. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone. It starts with the experience of not being at home for 12 days and then all the hands-on activities and experiences the children get to do and be part off is absolutely amazing. Thank you Aticon!”
“It’s a wonderful experience for young people to engage and inspire their desire for learning. It also creates greater independence in young people.”
“It was extremely well organised, and the program was absolutely fantastic. The experiences my child had and the care that was taken to ensure she got the most out of the program and enjoyed her time away was amazing. My daughter loved it and would love to go again. From the very first information evening until the arrival home, the entire process was fantastic and the experiences while away were second to none.”
“Rewarding and enriching life experience for an adolescent. Thank you for the organisation and keeping the students safe while they were away.”
“It provided James with an enriching experience in not only STEM activities but also pushing him out of his comfort zone, growth opportunities, friendships made and such a broad range of activities.”
“My daughter loved every minute. She found different areas of interest and met so many likeminded people – she had a fabulous time and wears her ‘wings’ with pride. She made some great friends, learnt so much and was exposed to some amazing learning opportunities.”
“Very well organized and it was an experience of a lifetime for our child.”
“Superbly organized and kept the students very busy. Our son barely called us at all, he said he was too busy and having the time of his life. Socially, it was a fantastic to be with a group of positive kids. This was a fabulous experience that teenagers need – combining social and educational in a really fun way.”
“My daughter felt safe and was in good professional care at all times. The staff were very friendly and approachable. It’s been a pleasure to deal with Aticon. The staff are very understanding. Efforts to keep costs to a minimum and COVID guarantees were appreciated. The program offered a valuable experience to understand what STEAM in a [new] environment has to offer. Excellent stretch exercise for young women to respond and engage in new situations outside their normal comfort zones.”
Student Testimonials
“I learnt a lot about myself and the people who were here with me. In addition, I learnt so much I didn’t know and expanded my knowledge. There was so much to do, definitely something for everyone. I had a great time.”
“I went this trip to get out of my comfort zone and I did in multiple activities. If there was a problem on my mind, I was able to talk about it and felt supported. There was a wider range of activities, and we got involved in all parts.”
“All the Aticon Staff was so nice, and I loved all the Group Managers. I made so many memories that I’ll never forget. I have grown so much mentally and I’m so much more confident now compared to day 1.”
“It was amazing and exceeded my expectations greatly. It was one of the best experiences of my life. It was amazing!”
“We learnt how to problem solve successfully and use a growth mindset through the help of the growth mantras and the team challenges.”
“I loved this experience as all the students and staff were supportive, kind and so inspiring. The activities were so much fun, and we learnt so much. I’m really sad I had to leave but the relationships I’ve made will last a lifetime.”
“My time and experience thoroughly exceeded my expectations as the relationships, teamwork and experiences were unparalleled to anything I have ever had before. The guidance and support of my Group Manger helped me to overcome my initial fear and apprehension allowing for me to grow and strive in many personal ways. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity and the honour of being taught and led by kind, honest and caring people.”
“I believe I learnt very valuable leadership skills, which I will take back to school and throughout my university career. I also developed my communication skills. This will help in many areas moving forward.”
