The best of all worlds

Claremont students embark on a unique overseas expedition 

Risk assessments are standard practice for any school trip, but not many include the following: ‘Large animals, such as elephants, hippos, zebras, giraffes and crocodiles.’ Oh, and snakes! 

World Challenge is an organisation with over three decades’ experience of organising overseas school trips. ‘For over 30 years, we’ve enabled transformative travel experiences right around the world,’ explains their website. ‘These experiences complement school learning, giving students the opportunity to become true life-learners and global citizens.’ 

And now, under the leadership of Ms Smith and Mr Maberly, that opportunity is being extended to seven intrepid Claremont students from years 11 and 12. From 9th July 2025, they will be travelling to Eswatini – formerly known as Swaziland – in Southern Africa. World Challenge is known for its emphasis on student-led travel and responsible tourism and this trip will give the Claremont pupils a chance to step out of their comfort zones, into a culture vastly different to their own. 

‘We’ve been given an incredible opportunity to travel to Eswatini and work alongside a Neighbourhood Care Point to support local communities,’ says Ms Smith. ‘From building projects to landscaping and installing gardens, we’ll be getting our hands dirty to help improve access to education, support teacher training and play a small part in breaking the cycle of poverty.’ 

‘While we're in Eswatini, we’ll be travelling to a local village and working on a community project, most likely construction or education-based,’ explains Andrei Simion from Year 12. ‘In addition, we’ll be doing a trek, which is both a physical and mental challenge, but also provides great perspective. It's the best of all worlds!’ 

‘I’m a bit nervous about being far from home and adjusting to a completely new environment,’ admits Ambika Sharma, also in Year 12. Andrei agrees: ‘I think there's always some apprehension when going to an unknown land, especially one so far from home. I know the trekking will be challenging, in terms of climate and culture shock, but I'm excited to overcome this.’ 

The expedition is designed to challenge students physically, emotionally and socially. From planning their own meals and budgets to navigating unfamiliar terrain, they are encouraged to take ownership of the experience.  

‘The World Challenge trip is a unique opportunity for students to learn valuable life skills outside the classroom,’ explains Andrei. ‘We gain insight into leadership and teamwork, while the expedition itself allows us to give back to a community in need of our assistance.’  

‘I’m excited to experience a new culture, meet local people and challenge myself in a different setting,’ says Ambika.  

‘I'm most looking forward to experiencing the “Swazi” culture and engaging with people both on my team and in the community,’ adds Andrei. ‘I think there’s a great deal of satisfaction and accomplishment in working collaboratively towards a common goal.’  

So, all assessments aside, it seems that some risks are definitely worth taking!