While the focus is inevitably on the overseas trip element, School Challenges are normally designed as a long-term programme which provides plenty of opportunity for developing life skills such as communication, negotiation, managing responsibility and budgeting.
The team-work that develops during the School Challenge activities is essential in ensuring the overseas expedition is a success.
Some schools however prefer to have a shorter lead-up time to the trip, with fewer decisions being made by their pupils. We will work with you to plan both the Expedition and Planning Phase to your requirements.
12 - 16 months of valuable lead-up time allows for:
Planning: The students plan, with the guidance of their dedicated Discover Adventure mentor and the school's nominated teacher, how their challenge will work. They will have responsibility for the organisation of their expedition and management of their budget. This phase develops invaluable skills in taking responsibility and team-building.
Raising Funds: The cost of the expedition must be raised by the students. Our experience in this field allows us to offer many ideas and monitor your students' progress, but the overall responsibilty is that of the students themselves. Raising funds is an enriching experience which can teach many life skills, and requires commitment, planning and perseverance. This phase can involve the rest of the school, families and wider community.
Team-Building School Challenges provide continuous team-building opportunities, but the ultimate exercise takes place on our customised training weekend, where we help the students to develop the necessary skills for their Expedition. Communication, team-building skills and outdoor skills are vital elements of this.
School Participation The whole school can be involved in as much or as little of the planning and raising funds as it likes. All age groups will benefit from the special relevance and global awareness a personalised school project like this will bring to curricular subjects.
If you prefer a shorter lead-up time to your challenge, we will work with you to suggest a programme which provides as much support, development and team-building in that time as possible.
For details on the Overseas Expedition select the appropriate page of the menu above.
