Sleman, Indonesia — Starting the semester, having a field trip to Wanagama forest became the first go-to hands-on learning by JMES first graders. On February 7, 2025, the JMES Grade 1 embarked on an exciting adventure at Wanagama, immersing themselves in the wonders of nature and enhancing their environmental knowledge.

In the early morning, the students started their tracks with a forest walk, honey harvesting observation, trying the fresh honey directly from the bee production, and learning a glimpse into the history of Wanagama.The special highlight of the trip was the chance for students to witness the honey-harvesting process firsthand. During this activity, students eagerly participated in a fun Q&A session with the guide, where they had the opportunity to answer questions related to the forest. Those who answered correctly were rewarded with the chance to wear the bee suits—clothing to protect against bees in a striped pattern with an astronaut-like head covering, to assist with harvesting the honey. Along the way, students learned about the types of bees and how they produce honey, deepening their understanding of nature. While not all students got to wear protective suits, they were delighted to taste fresh honey, savoring its natural sweetness and filling their curiosity about the honey-making process.

During the forest walking tour, the students curiously explored each part of the forest, including the passing rocks, creek, and vegetation. They discovered a lot about various types of trees planted in the forest and their characteristics. One memorable stop included a sightseeing and explanation of the Mahogany fruit, which comes from the well-known Mahogany tree, and also when the students encountered the Flamboyan worms. These unique species can be eaten and are often enjoyed as a local nutritious delicacy in Gunung Kidul. The students were fascinated with the worm insight, appreciating the unique aspects of their local ecosystem.

The final trip was a museum visit, where the students discovered that the site had been a shooting location for various movies, cultivating students' broader knowledge about the industry and Wanagama's accomplishments.The culmination of this excursion is a testament to JMES's commitment to providing students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences that cultivate their appreciation for nature and the environment. This Wanagama field trip is an adventure of spirit, curiosity, and discovery!

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