Students embark on Yukon expedition

  22 October, 2019

Students from Ormiston North East Wolverhampton Academy recently embarked on a three-week trekking expedition to the Canadian Yukon Territory, as a result of a partnership between Ormiston Academies Trust and the British Exploring Society.

Both organisations joined together to fund five students’ expedition – a once-in-a-lifetime experience that they might not otherwise have had the opportunity to enjoy.

Before setting off, the group completed a preparation weekend in Oxford including team building exercises and workshops around life in the Yukon Environment, such as first aid and bear safety training.

The group kicked off their expedition at the Curling Club in Whitehorse, Yukon, where they spoke to the local indigenous community the First Nations and prepared ration packs. This marked the start of a hugely diverse and challenging trip, with activities ranging from trekking and bushwhacking through the wilderness and testing water sources up in the mountains to playing games around the campfire and enjoying the sights of the Northern Lights.

Aside from the physical challenges, the trip generated a positive impact on the confidence and social skills of the students involved, as well as their navigation and route planning skills. The students are now exploring opportunities to pursue additional expeditions and outdoor activities in the future.

Nikita, a student at Ormiston North East Wolverhampton Academy who took part in the expedition, said:

“If I were to describe the experience in a sentence, I would say that it’s an unforgettable adventure that has inspired me to try more new things and test my limits.”

Sophie, another student who took part, said:

“This opportunity has had a positive impact on my life as it gave me the chance to learn survival skills in a remote location, gain friends for life and have memories that will last a lifetime. It has instilled in me buckets of confidence and has made me want to travel and explore the world around me.

“I hope that many other young individuals like myself take this opportunity even if they haven’t done anything like this before.”

Craig Cooling, Principal at Ormiston North East Wolverhampton Academy, said:

“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to enjoy a truly memorable and life-changing experience. The students developed skills that will serve them in similar endeavours, or simply in their everyday lives, such as working in a team or remaining calm and focused in difficult situations.

“I am delighted to hear just how much this trip changes the outlook and personal goals of the students involved and we look forward to opening up similar opportunities to more students in the near future.”


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