Over the school holidays, a group of Newhaven College students from years 10 and 11 volunteered their time by working at a rural Cambodian school. 

The group was accompanied by principal, Tony Corr and prep teacher, Fiona Smart. 

The college partnered with Projects Abroad, an organisation that provides experiential education while making a positive impact in communities. 

The students supported the Vihear Sour Primary School, located about 40km east of Phnom Penh. 

The school is under-resourced, with classes of more than 40 students in basic and hot conditions. 

College students made a substantial contribution in their time there, helping renovate classrooms and teaching English, with some of the lesson plans they created even adopted by some of the local teachers.

Year 10 student Kadek Humphries said the experience was "incredibly fulfilling". 

"It has given me a chance to make a difference in the community, connect with different people and develop valuable skills. I have absolutely loved it," Kadek said.

Year 10's Tilly Stecher agreed. 

"Having the ability to make such a significant contribution to these kids' lives and their education has been such a rewarding experience".

In addition to the work in the school, the students visited many sites, including visits to street markets, the Royal Palace, witnessing Khmer boxing, a Buddhist water blessing, a cruise on the Mekong River and a tour of the S-21 genocide museum. 

The final days of the trip were spent in Siem Reap, where students rose before dawn to visit the world-famous Angkor Wat Temple.

Principal Tony Corr said he would like to see this trip offered to future Newhaven students. "Our students are so lucky to have the fortunate life they have in Australia," he said.

"To travel to a disadvantaged part of the world and to experience the challenges these communities face, and then to be able to assist through volunteering while there, is so beneficial to the young people."

Details: abroad.com.au