World Challenge 2017

World Challenge..Where to Next?

In 2017, after 18 months of enormous personal commitment, regular meetings and a pre-departure training camp, 49 Year 10 and 11 students set off on a World Challenge expedition to Thailand, Laos and China.  Our three teams determined their own itineraries and took charge of the team budget, transport and accommodation arrangements for the month abroad.  Each group participated in the four phases of expedition: acclimatisation, trekking, community engagement, and rest and relaxation.

The Great Wall of China!

All groups chose to complete the community project phase in Laos, one of the most underdeveloped countries in South East Asia.  In a tribal Khmu village, students participated in homestays with the local people and built a toilet for the kindergarten.  This included digging the trenches, laying the pipeline, building and rendering the building, preparing a concrete base for the water tank and completing the fence around the school.  The immersion in the community was one of the highlights of the trip for many students.

Community Engagement Phase

Each team completed two treks. The tropical jungles of Thailand and the spectacular trails of Tiger Leaping Gorge in China were incredibly rewarding experiences.

Trekking

Each group chose different recreational adventures.  We visited temples and waterfalls; the markets were full of food and opportunities to barter for local items. And, of course, The Great Wall of China was ticked off the bucket list!

Most importantly, all the students achieved incredible personal growth, undertook leadership tasks, participated in team building activities and developed close bonds with their group members. When asked ‘Did the expedition meet your expectations?’ many of the students replied with ‘It exceeded them all!’

On behalf of everyone involved in Frankston High School World Challenge, I would like to thank Mrs Debra Child for coordinating and participating in our previous four expeditions.  Her wealth of knowledge and experience made each trip an amazing success. Planning for our next expedition is currently taking place and our next destination will be Northern India! If you are interested in joining us on this incredible adventure, stay tuned for further information.

Ms Cheryl Hodgson

World Challenge Coordinator