School news

Last summer, whilst most of the school was enjoying the first part of their summer holidays, a group of students from Years 12 &13 were away on the adventure of a lifetime: the expedition to Nepal. The three-week expedition was nearly a year and a half in the planning and was well worth the effort. With the destination being announced just a week before the devastating earthquake, many students were put off the trip, but for those of us who weren’t deterred the expedition was an experience like no other. The two groups of students devised their own itineraries, managed their own budgets, and raised their own funds. For both groups the expedition could be broken down into 3 sections: the project, the trek, and R&R. The project saw the groups contributing manpower to a cause within the country. For team 1 this was spending a week digging and pickaxing away to re-level a school site

in the village of Ramche. Team 2 on the other hand chose to stay in Kathmandu, helping in a larger school in the city. The trek for many was the toughest part of the expedition. The rough terrain, monsoon weather and determined leeches made sure that the ‘challenge phase’ certainly lived up to its name. R&R was made up of exploring the country, enjoying the Chitwan National Park and visiting beautiful heritage sites and temples, such as Swyambhunath (the monkey temple) and Pashupatinath. Those of us who went on the expedition won’t soon forget the incredible people we met, the amazing country we experienced and the strong friendships we made. To any Year 10s and 11s considering going to Kenya: the thought of going away like this may be slightly daunting but speaking from experience, it will stay with you for the rest of your life. Every hour of work you put into planning or paying for the expedition comes back to you in such a rewarding way, and allows you to take ownership of your expedition. Ben White (13RWS)

Wilderness Expedition to Nepal