Students from Newcastle Sixth Form College have been raising money to get a taste of India and a travel experience of a lifetime.
The 8 students are taking part in World Challenge and are aiming to raise £2150 towards an educational visit to India including a trek to the foothills of the Himalayas to work with underprivileged children.
With the support of World Challenge, the largest expedition organisers in the world, the students have taken ownership of planning everything from their destination and itinerary, to fundraising ideas and events, budgeting, preparation, fitness and nutrition. The Indian banquet is just one in a long line of fundraising events the students have organised so far.
Matthew Carter student at Newcastle Sixth Form College said : “I feel inspired and honoured to be part of such a life changing experience. I imagine it will be a real eye opener to how less economically developed country’s work”
Ashley Puente De La Vega added : “I feel it is a privilege to have such an amazing and once in a lifetime opportunity to go to India and help those who are less fortunate than myself.
“I'm very excited for the expedition as I've never really been anywhere as exotic as India and the cultural differences as well as other differences will be so fascinating to see first-hand.
“I hope to be able to bring some of my experiences back home with me and share them with my scouts and being an assistant scout leader, I hope I can encourage them to do similar things that will benefit them in more ways than one.”
Steve Gibson, Principal at Newcastle Sixth Form College said : “World Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for the students and is just one of the many enrichment programmes we have on offer here at Newcastle Sixth Form College.
“World Challenge teaches the students important life skills such as teamwork and money management as well as an appreciation of the challenges facing other cultures. This hopefully awakens the desire to understand, explore and develop a global perspective on life and provide them with an experience that they will never forget.”
With offices in Australia, South Africa, Dubai, Hong Kong and Boston, World Challenge sends over 9000 students on expeditions every year. It aims to support and facilitate the development of young people through life-changing experiences. It provides a safe environment for students of school age to explore the limits of their comfort zone, allowing them to grow in confidence and resourcefulness, both of which are key qualities to help build successful and fulfilling lives.
