VIETNAM IMMERSION CAMP 2026
The 2026 Vietnam Immersion provided a life-changing opportunity for students from St Luke's College and Chisholm Catholic College to step beyond the classroom and experience faith, service and culture in a meaningful way. The immersion challenged students to become global citizens while developing a deeper understanding of community, compassion and social justice through connections with the mission of the Dominican Sisters.
In preparation for the journey, students participated in cultural learning sessions, Vietnamese language workshops, Catholic Social Teaching discussions and fundraising activities. These experiences helped students build relationships, understand the purpose of the immersion and prepare to serve with open minds and hearts.
Travelling throughout Ho Chi Minh City, Long Khanh, Bien Hoa and Pleiku, students experienced both the rich history and vibrant culture of Vietnam. Highlights included visiting the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels, exploring the bustling streets of Saigon, attending Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral and experiencing everyday life alongside local communities.
A significant part of the immersion was spent working closely with the Dominican Sisters and visiting schools, kindergartens and boarding communities. Students learned alongside local children, took part in cultural exchange activities and witnessed first-hand the impact of faith-driven service. Time spent at the Dominican Motherhouse, Hoa Hong School, Hoa Binh Xuan Loc Vocational College and the Ba Na Girls Boarding School provided powerful insights into education, resilience and the importance of opportunity.
The immersion embodied the values that underpin life at St Luke's College: faith, respect, service and community. By living simply, embracing unfamiliar experiences and forming genuine connections with people from different backgrounds, students gained a greater appreciation for their own circumstances and a deeper understanding of their responsibility to make a positive difference in the world. This aligns closely with the College's mission of developing young people to be the best they can be and to actively live their faith through service to others.
More than just a trip, the Vietnam Immersion was a journey of personal growth. Students returned with lasting friendships, unforgettable memories and a renewed commitment to empathy, gratitude and leadership. The experiences shared, lessons learned and relationships formed will continue to influence the way they contribute to the St Luke's community and the wider world for years to come.