Experiential Education Weekend
Over the weekend of May 20–22, the boarding school community went on experiential education trips in four groups. The itinerary included, among other things, two city tours. One of these was a trip to the Rhine, starting in Wiesbaden. In addition to Wiesbaden, we also visited the cities of Bingen and Mainz and took a boat ride on the Rhine in glorious sunshine. In addition to historical sights, this weekend also had a musical focus—in the evenings, the participants made music together and rehearsed some wonderful pieces that they will perform at the next opportunity.
Twelve students and two teachers spent the weekend in Düsseldorf. We were immediately captivated by the city and our wonderful accommodations right on the Rhine. On Saturday, we took a guided tour of the city. We ventured away from the Kö and the Old Town and got to know a different side of the city—we were guided through the city by three former homeless men who told us about their past lives. It was very moving to learn about these men’s stories and to see the city through their eyes. And let’s be honest—who really wants a typical guided tour? After the official part, we explored the city on our own. It was Japan Day, and the city was bustling with activity. In addition to cultural traditions and culinary highlights, we saw remarkable costumes worn by cosplayers as far as the eye could see. After a traditional meal at the Düsseldorf Brauhaus, we rounded out the day on the banks of the Rhine and watched the grand finale of Japan Day: the 30-minute fireworks display over the Rhine. Before heading back to the Steinmühle, we tried out a new game format—the live escape room game. In this game, the group is locked in a room and must solve various puzzles—which in turn lead to further tasks—to ultimately find the key that lets them escape the room. And sure enough: in the last minute of the 60-minute time limit, thanks to a crucial clue from one of our group members, we were able to leave the room and successfully complete the challenge.
Captain Schäfer took another group of students on a trip up the Ohm River. Even though we weren’t sure what to expect, a barbecue and a tent in a meadow were part of the plan. After our first short trip on Friday, we were all already a little soaked. The first night was also very restless because of two parties going on around us. However, everyone was thrilled when we were treated to a fantastic breakfast and great weather on Saturday. The weather and the variety of food made this trip a real highlight. We paddled until sunset and ended the day around the campfire. On Sunday, too, as we paddled back from our campsite to Steinmühle, the mood was great. Water fights and small rapids made the final leg a relaxed and carefree conclusion.
Of course, the traditional trip to Lake Eder was a must. About 20 students were raring to go when three minibuses set off from Marburg toward the Waldecker Land region. At the foot of the Kellerwald National Park, the tents were set up so everyone could enjoy nature in a relaxed atmosphere and under perfect weather conditions. A well-rounded program of activities—ranging from sports like surfing to soccer, and relaxation with board games around the campfire—made sure no one got bored. Everyone’s physical well-being was well taken care of. The grilled treats were a huge hit even with the local “population,” as evidenced by a nighttime visit from a family of raccoons.
On Sunday, the boarding school community returned to Steinmühle feeling satisfied and full of new experiences, and they had dinner together. All in all: a successful weekend!
