Inside CGA's Community: Global Experiences in July 2025

July brought a vibrant mix of in-person meetups, academic enrichment, and student-led initiatives across Crimson Global Academy communities around the world. From hands-on science workshops in Auckland to outdoor adventures in the Scottish Highlands, the CGA community embraced the opportunity to connect, create, and celebrate together.

Hands-On Science Days in Auckland

During the Aoraki Term 2 break, over 25 CGA students converged in Auckland for the in-person Science Days, the largest turnout for this event to date. Led by Head of Science Ms Sheryl Husband and supported by CGA science teachers Craig Preston, Emily Hall, Sean Tsung, and Andy Meldrum, the programme welcomed IG and iAL students to days of Physics, Biology, and Chemistry experiments.

Students travelled from across New Zealand, and even from Australia, to attend. The sessions were more than just academic. “Nervous and shy young people are transformed into confident, relaxed science students,” said Ms Husband, reflecting on the impact of team-based learning. Students honed their lab skills while building collaborative problem-solving abilities.

Teachers, too, felt the benefits. “Their working relationships are enhanced,” Ms Husband shared. A standout moment included “a flame test worth remembering” during Chemistry with Mr Meldrum.

Vietnam-Based US Graduates Don CGA Caps and Gowns

In a special celebration hosted by Crimson Vietnam, four full-time CGA US students, Anh, Kelly, Ken, and Kimmy, marked their graduation in style. Dressed in CGA caps and gowns and joined by Crimson Product Officer and Head of China, Fangzhou Jiang, they commemorated years of hard work and achievement.

Congratulations once again to our Vietnam-based graduates!

Student Insights from Greenwich Summer Camp in Scotland

CGA’s second school camp, and the first held in Europe, took students from both Aoraki and Greenwich campuses into the scenic Scottish outdoors for a week of bonding, adventure, and personal growth.

“It was fun meeting students from all around the world. We all became instant friends,” shared Eleanore. “Camp challenged me during the high ropes course… and it helped me connect with my peers as they helped me.”

Renna, who also attended the Nelson camp in New Zealand, reflected on the importance of in-person interaction. “I feel like I have made a stronger connection with my friends than before.” For Emma, the bond among students was immediate: “Everyone got along so well… we were able to laugh and joke as if we had known each other for a lifetime.”

Yoshino added, “I enjoyed all of the activities… but the most memorable moment was playing small games with my friends in free time.” And for Alex, the whole experience stood out: “I rarely get the opportunity to socialise and connect with people my age… I absolutely enjoyed bushcraft and gorge walking.”

Aoraki Students Launch Peer Support Platform ‘Soulspace’

Turning their challenges into action, Aoraki students Andy and Emma have launched Soulspace, an anonymous peer support platform created to address emotional well-being and connection in the virtual learning environment.

“We created a platform where students can share whatever they’re going through, while remaining completely anonymous,” they said. “Our goal is to ensure no one feels as though they must go through hard times alone.” The initiative aims to build emotional connection and empathy within CGA’s online learning environment.

In-Person Meetups Bring Online Community Together Across Melbourne, New Zealand

CGA hosted a series of community gatherings across Melbourne and New Zealand in July, drawing nearly 100 students, family members, faculty, and staff.

In New Zealand, students came together in four cities:

• Auckland: Bowling and frozen yoghurt
• Hamilton: Escape rooms and lunch
• Christchurch: Bowling, arcade games, and mini-golf with teachers Ms Macdonald and Mr Heselton
• Wellington: Escape room and dinner with Dean Ms Austin

Meanwhile, in Melbourne, students and staff played a real-life version of Among Us, solving puzzles and building camaraderie.

Fireside Chat with Dr Jamie Beaton Opens New Chapter for CGA Alumni

In a milestone event for CGA’s alumni engagement efforts, co-founder Dr Jamie Beaton joined Head of Community Jessica Silcock for a virtual Fireside Chat. The session offered invaluable insights for students transitioning from school to university and beyond.

Dr Beaton shared lessons from his academic journey through Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford among other top institutions, encouraging attendees to prioritise depth in experience: “It’s about setting yourself up for success in each opportunity.”

The event marked the beginning of a broader alumni programme focused on mentorship, career-building, and community connection and sets the stage for more alumni-driven initiatives in the coming months.