Why Are the School Travel Organiser Awards Important?

Every year, the School Travel Organiser Awards shine a light on the people and organisations who make learning beyond the classroom possible. In a world where cost of living is rising and school trips require careful planning, robust safety systems and genuine educational value, recognition for those going above and beyond matters.

Awards like these are not just about the trophies or prizes, they celebrate the teachers who lead expeditions, the travel teams who work behind the scenes, and the organisations committed to delivering meaningful, responsible experiences for young people.

Educational travel is more than just the opportunity to explore a new place, it’s a powerful tool for growth, resilience and global understanding.

The Role of Educational Travel

With the rising expectations around safety and safeguarding standards, school trips become just as much about the processes that let them exist as the experience itself. School travel providers must ensure that all school trips are held to tough and deliver experiential learning opportunities in a safe and sustainable environment.

With increasing expectations around sustainability and measurable impact, it has never been more important to recognise school travel providers who prioritise responsibility, long-term partnerships and real educational outcomes.

The School Travel Organiser Awards give schools the opportunity to champion the providers who genuinely make a difference.

Why Camps International Is Proud to Be Considered

We are extremely proud and excited that Camps International can be nominated the Best School Tour Operator (Large) category this year.

Since 2002, we have worked alongside schools and communities to create expeditions rooted in purpose, combining curriculum-linked experiences, service-led projects and sustainable impact.

On all of our responsible school travel expeditions, we partner with local communities and work on projects that are led by their needs at the time. This long-term partnership enables us to work towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals while creating employment opportunities for the teams on the ground, building long lasting, mutually meaningful relationships throughout the whole Camps team.

However, we cannot enter these School Travel Organiser 2026 categories without nominations from the schools and teachers we work with.

What Makes a “Best School Tour Operator”?

The best school travel experiences challenge students to step outside their comfort zones while feeling supported and safe. It builds resilience, leadership and cultural understanding far more than can be built inside any classroom, and it helps students feel more confident, more self-aware and more curious about the world around them.

But behind every impactful school trip is a travel operator that prioritises responsibility over shortcuts.

A leading school tour operator should:

• Put safeguarding and safety at the forefront of every decision
• Work in genuine partnership with host communities
• Deliver meaningful, measurable educational outcomes
• Align with global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Employ and empower local teams in destination countries
• Operate sustainably, with long-term impact rather than short-term gain

To be considered in any category, the provider must have consistency, integrity and purpose. It’s important that projects are impact-driven and that schools feel supported from the first enquiry to the final reflection session.

When schools nominate a provider for these awards, they are recognising not just a trip, but a commitment to doing things the right way and creating opportunities for students to become true global citizens.

A Big Camps Thank You

If nominated, it would reflect on the dedication of our in-country teams, the commitment of our partner schools, and the thousands of students who have chosen purpose-driven travel. Recognition in these awards would belong to our entire Camps family.

But these nominations aren’t just about us, they’re about the thousands of students, teachers and community partners committed to delivering experiential learning for students of all ages, all over the UK. If we’re nominated, it’s not just about Camps employees, it’s about everyone who make Camps International what it is. If we’re shortlisted, it will be because of you.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

What Is Responsible Traveller Training?

Our Responsible Traveller Training Programme is a set of two online webinars that students complete before their expedition. It forms part of our wider Real World Studies programme and supports students in becoming thoughtful, informed and respectful travellers.

The sessions focus on two key areas:

• Understanding environmental impact and carbon awareness
• Learning about the country they are travelling to and the community projects they will support

Together, they help students build confidence, awareness and responsibility before they even arrive in their destination. Not only do they learn more about sustainable travel, but they also get an insight into the projects and conservation work they’ll be engaging in on their expedition.

Webinar One: Understanding Impact and Carbon Footprint

The first session introduces students to the idea that every journey has an impact and that small choices can make a big difference.

Students learn:

• What a carbon footprint is and why it matters
• How everyday actions affect the environment
• Simple ways to reduce their emissions before, during and after travel

Rather than overwhelming students, the training focuses on practical steps they can take. It empowers them to make positive choices and develop habits that last long after their expedition ends.

Students come away with practical tips for shrinking their emissions footprint, smart ways to travel responsibly, and an extra boost of confidence as they prepare for their adventure.

Webinar Two: Understanding the Destination and Its Communities

The second session is country specific and helps students understand where they are going and why their project work matters.

In this webinar, students learn about:

• The culture and traditions of their destination
• The challenges faced by local communities
• The sustainable projects they will support

For example, students will learn about global sustainable development and the meaningful project work that lies at the core of their expedition. They also get a sense of what camp life is like and how understanding the purpose behind their journey can inspire and strengthen their fundraising efforts.

This session ensures students arrive informed, respectful and ready to contribute positively to the communities welcoming them.

Why Responsible Traveller Training Matters for Parents

For parents, Responsible Traveller Training offers reassurance that students are being prepared thoughtfully and responsibly. Responsible travel also goes hand in hand with strong safety standards, supported by Camps’ comprehensive policies and guidelines.

It shows that our expeditions are not just about travel and adventure, but also about education, ethics and care for the environment and local communities.

Students gain:

• A better understanding of global issues
• Awareness of cultural differences
• A stronger sense of independence and purpose

Knowing that students have completed this training helps parents feel confident that their child is travelling with respect and intention.

Why It Matters for Students

For students, Responsible Traveller Training is the first step in their expedition journey.

It helps them:

• Feel prepared for what lies ahead
• Understand why their project work matters
• Learn how to travel sustainably
• Build confidence before they depart
• See their expedition as more than just a trip

Students begin their journey with curiosity, respect and motivation, rather than uncertainty. It also gives students an opportunity to ask a member of our Travel Support team any questions they may have before they embark on their expedition. With every webinar ending in a Q&A session, it gives students the chance to easy any anxieties by talking directly to our Camps team.

Building Global Citizens Through Travel

Responsible Traveller Training supports our wider mission of helping young people become responsible global citizens.

It links directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and teaches students about:

• Environmental responsibility
• Cultural understanding
• Ethical travel
• Community led development
• Long term impact

By learning before they go, students are better equipped to engage meaningfully with the people and places they visit.

Part of a Bigger Preparation Journey

Responsible Traveller Training sits alongside other preparation steps such as fundraising, packing, fitness preparation and team building.

Together, these elements help students feel confident, capable and ready to take on the challenges of expedition life. An expedition is a big step for a lot of students, some of whom may never have been away from home for an extended period. We always aim to make sure that students feel confident, well prepared and excited about the experience ahead of them.

This preparation ensures that when students arrive at camp, they are not just visitors. They are participants in something purposeful and lasting.

Impactful Travel

Responsible Traveller Training ensures that every expedition begins with understanding, respect and responsibility. It helps students recognise the ripple effect of their travel choices and encourages them to leave a positive legacy wherever they go. It aims to teach students to support ethical choices when it comes to travelling overseas, and sets them up for success into the future.

By learning how to travel sustainably and engage thoughtfully with local communities, students are not only preparing for an expedition, they are preparing for a lifetime of responsible global citizenship.

However, responsible travel is not only about what students learn before departure, but also about how our expeditions are designed. Over time, itineraries have been carefully adapted to reduce carbon emissions wherever possible, from the way camps operate to how project work is delivered in country. In many cases, students actually live more sustainably on expedition than they do at home, using less energy, consuming fewer resources and embracing simpler, community-based living. By working alongside students in this way, we are continually striving to improve our own environmental response and ensure that together, we leave a lighter footprint on the planet.

Learn more about preparing for your expedition here.

Life at Camp Donbiki in the Amazon Rainforest

The next day we set off from Quito and drove for nine hours deep into the province of Pastaza; our destination – Camp Donbiki in the Shiwakucha community. As the towns grew sparser, the air grew thicker and soon we were entirely enveloped by lush rainforest, the horns of cars replaced with the ululations of tropical birds. We stopped at a beautiful mirador (viewpoint), eating empanadas from our boxed lunch and taking in the majesty of the jungle. I had four!

We arrived at Donbiki mid-afternoon, equal parts knackered and excited. It is difficult to put into words how astonishing this camp is. Situated right on the banks of the raging Arajuno river, a tributary of the Amazon, the camp is enveloped on three sides by lush vegetation but is a short walk across the main road to the Shiwakucha community proper, where the project work takes place. Throughout the night, the hum of insects blends with the birdsong in a natural crescendo that is utterly disorientating yet incredibly inspiring.

The facilities were wonderful: the main building contains bunk beds with decent sized mattresses and mosquito nets; there were fully functioning toilets and showers drawing water directly from the Arajuno via a water filtration system. I half expected to have to clean myself in the river, so to be greeted with working showers and working toilets felt like a luxury. (Just make sure not to swallow the water!)

Despite the encroaching flora and fauna, the camp possesses more than adequate social space, with a huge main hut and then some beautifully scenic areas next to the river for unwinding after a hard day’s project work. I admit having been slightly nervous about the possibility of unexpected visitors in our rooms, but my fears were allayed by the introduction of the dedicated ‘snake-man’ to ward off any inquisitive anacondas. (Disappointingly I saw no snakes, but at least that means the snake-man is worth his weight in gold.)

After settling into our rooms, a staff of locals cooked us incredibly hearty food; and, with the signature six bowl system in place, hygiene was top priority and not a single one of us felt the slightest bit poorly despite the unfamiliarity of the food. For a camp that is so remote, it is fair to say we all felt remarkably at home in a short space of time; we spent the night there, drifting off to sleep on our extremely comfortable mattresses, protected from bugs by robust mosquito nets.

Into the Jungle: Trekking to Camp Ceibo

However, as off the beaten track we thought ourselves in Donbiki, nothing prepared us for our sojourn to Camp Ceiba, the satellite camp named after the towering trees that stand sentinel on its borders. We began our trek early, the rain relentlessly hammering the road, me kitted out in a spare rain poncho courtesy of Claire (naturally I had forgotten to bring my rain jacket to a rainforest). Led by Theo, our guide and Pastaza native, we left the road and headed into the thick jungle. Theo’s intimate knowledge of the jungle was astonishing to witness; he drew our attention to the Toquilla plant, whose strong fibres can be woven into Panama hats; without missing a beat, he then opened a blister on a plant to reveal a line of bright yellow ants marching steadily along the branch of the tree. Remarkably, Theo then swiped a few hapless ants and ate them there and then. Turns out, the ants, scientifically known as Myrmelachista schumanni, release a citrus scent when crushed or bitten. It was genuinely humbling to be led by someone so attuned to the rhythms of the natural world.

We eventually arrived at the camp and put up our hammocks, which did their best to repel the driving rain that did not relent once for ten hours. (Well, they don’t call it a dry forest do they?) _ Although remote, this camp is extremely well staffed, and we ate an extraordinarily good meal despite the paucity of cooking equipment. I was initially worried that the satellite camp might be a bridge too far for the pupils, but after having experienced its slick management, I am now incredibly excited for them to experience it. Simply put, nothing else compares to falling asleep in a hammock to the surreal sounds of the jungle.

Exploring the Andes

Although less intrepid than Donbiki and Ceibo, the rest of the recce was no less enjoyable as we careened around the Andes courtesy of our tireless driver, Guille, visiting Camp Los Andes and Camp Kuri Kucho to scope out the project work our pupils will be completing in the summer. Nestled in the Andes, which casts its peaks over SEVEN countries, these camps lie in beautiful, fertile valleys, where farming forms the basis of the communities. Like Donbiki, these camps are based around making improvements to the facilities of the primary schools. The children did a traditional dance for us, whilst the headteachers provided a delicious lunch consisting of local produce.

Ecuador Beyond the Camps – Cotopaxi, Otavalo and Quito

As we dotted around central Ecuador (including a taste of the breathtaking Cotopaxi national park) we were put up at lovely boutique hotels in Otavalo and the outskirts of Quito. (Shout out to Hostal Colibri, so called after the kaleidoscopic range of hummingbirds who settle in its garden). Despite the constant travelling, we all felt positively pampered; it was lovely to indulge in the treasures of the country as tourist before the work begins in earnest in the summer.

After a visit to the Ciudad Mitad Del Mundo and garbed in psychedelic ponchos, we were off to the airport. Our flight home was smooth, and before you could say ‘dios del muerto’ we were back on terra firma. We said our goodbyes and I headed off, feeling immensely sorry for those making the trip to the far-flung provinces of England whilst I sloped off back to North London.

Final Thoughts: Why Every Teacher Should Join a Camps International Recce

For any teacher considering the inspection visit- just do it. You are so well-looked after; you gain an unparallelled insight into each camp as well as an entirely FREE week in a country you may never visit again after the expedition. Camps International run an incredibly slick operation, and the recce did nothing but fuel my excitement for the full expedition in the summer. Gracias Camps International;  Ecuador ama la vida!

Hear more from Peter, along with additional takeaways from a number of teachers who have joined us on a Teacher Inspection Visit across multiple destinations in the video below:

Why Short-Term Projects Can be Problematic

At Camps, we focus on long-term collaboration with the local communities we travel to, rather than short-term projects. All our service-led work is done in partnership with the local community and is based on their needs at the time. Whether it’s helping to build water storage pots in Cambodia, creating safe learning environments in Tanzania, or working on elephant deterrent fences in Kenya, our projects are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and led by the local community members themselves.

We believe that shared goals and working towards long-term outcomes is far more important than any short-term gratification. We have built relationships up with our hosts over the last two decades, and have found that when the community is invested, our student travellers are too. Plus, it makes the projects more sustainable as the communities always take ownership after the work is completed.

How Long-Term Partnerships Create Real Impact 

Often, our projects aren’t done in a year. This may sound disappointing if students are expecting to see a project from start to completion, however sustainable, responsible change takes time. Long-term partnerships with local communities allow projects to be delivered to a higher standard and have a lasting impact well beyond the time our groups return home. Having projects led by the local community also means they create more job and leadership opportunities for local residents, creating a sustainable way for them to increase their earning potential. 

For example, a project in Cambodia had the support of 2025’s student travellers, with construction of the new classrooms reaching 40% completion by the end of summer. Since then, the Camps in-country team and local volunteers have taken the project even further, with 80% of the building now complete. The walls are fully built, the roof is in place, and doors and windows have been installed. Shortly, the in-country team will work on tiling the floor and painting inside one of the classrooms so it’s ready for teaching. These projects prove how student involvement contributes to long-term, sustainable change. 

What This Means for Students

Students will gain authentic cultural exchange from the communities in which they’re immersed. Instead of having a false façade, they will learn to understand cultural traditions and norms, local languages and cuisines, and learn firsthand about global issues different communities face, giving them a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

Students also become more self-aware and confident, with post-expedition surveys from 2024 showing that 95% of students reported growth in global awareness, independence and resilience.

There are also many student travellers that go on to work within conservation, sustainability or humanitarian career roles, or go on to train to become teachers or expedition leaders. We have several past student travellers now working for us at Camps HQ too!

Sustainable travel means not only being conscious of your footprint and emissions, but also means being sensitive to cultural norms, understanding of different global issues, and gracious in learning more about the world around you. By having our projects led by local communities, we ensure that students are learning firsthand about local priorities, perspectives, and what sustainable development really looks like in practice.

Why This Matters to Schools 

From the very beginning, we’ve been committed to doing things responsibly and with purpose. Our travellers never replace paid local roles, and every project is assessed against our Ethical Guidelines to make sure they uphold the highest standards in safeguarding, animal welfare, and sustainability. This approach allows us to deliver meaningful, authentic experiences for our travellers while creating real, lasting benefits for the communities we work alongside. 

Through our Responsible Traveller Training and Real World Studies programmes, we also make sure that the experiences delivered on expedition work alongside curriculum led work done inside the classroom.  We ensure that students are learning firsthand about cultural understanding, shared responsibility, and global citizenship. 

Student safety is also at the heart of everything we do. We carefully plan and manage every expedition with qualified leaders, experienced local teams, and 24/7 support from our global operations staff. From thorough risk assessments and secure transport between each location to robust communication systems and emergency procedures, we proactively manage safety at every stage. We make sure students and teachers are fully supported, allowing them to focus on learning, growth, and making a positive impact with confidence. 

In Conclusion 

Ethical school travel is not about one-off projects or short-term impact. It is about long-term commitment, trust, and working alongside communities in ways that genuinely benefit everyone involved. By prioritising local leadership, safeguarding, sustainability, and meaningful partnerships, our ethical expeditions give students the chance to learn responsibly while contributing to lasting change. When schools choose travel built on strong ethical foundations, they are not only enriching their students’ education but also helping to create a more respectful, informed, and globally minded generation.  

Meet Anna Lusty – Humanitarian Photographer and Ethics Advocate

To get some expert guidance on the topic, we’ve spoken to Anna Lusty, a professional photographer who specialises in NGO photography and guides humanitarian photography workshops in South Africa. Anna has spent many years photographing in communities where power dynamics, cultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations are especially important. Her insights below offer simple, thoughtful advice for anyone – even complete beginners with a phone camera – on how to approach portrait photography the right way while travelling.  

What should you keep in mind when taking pictures of videos of people when traveling? 

“For me, the most important thing is always respect. Photography is never just about the image – it’s about the person in front of the lens and fundamentally what you are saying about them. What messages are you sending out to the world in relation to how you have portrayed that person or group. I try to be aware of the power dynamics at play, especially when travelling or working in communities that may be vulnerable. I remind myself that I’m stepping into someone else’s world, and I need to honour that space. Consent, dignity, and context are everything. If the interaction leaves someone feeling exposed, misunderstood, or objectified, then the image isn’t worth taking.” 

How should you approach people if you want to ask to photograph them?

“I take a moment to engage – to smile, to greet, to connect in whatever small way is appropriate in that setting. I make the camera secondary. Once some trust is there, I explain clearly what I’m doing and why I’d love to photograph them. If language is a barrier, body language, warmth, and patience go a long way. And if there is any hesitation, I step back. It is so important to get consent and once you have that you can take a little time to make that connection seen in the portrait. It will transform the image and the viewer will feel it!” 

Is this different in different cultures?  

“Absolutely. Cultural context matters enormously. Some communities are very open to being photographed; others may view it as intrusive or inappropriate. In some cultures, photographing elders or certain ceremonies is deeply disrespectful; in others, people are proud and happy to be documented. I’ve learnt to do my homework, to ask local guides, and to stay observant. You can often sense the rules if you’re paying attention. Always check in before pulling your camera out.” 

Are there moments when you should just put your camera (or phone) away?  

“Imagery is incredibly powerful – a single photograph can travel far beyond its original context and tell a story that may not be yours to tell. With that power comes responsibility. There are times when I simply don’t know enough about a person’s circumstances, history, or cultural context to represent them accurately or fairly. In those moments, choosing not to take the picture is the most ethical decision. Not every story needs to be captured, and certainly not every story is mine to share.” 

What about posting pictures of people on social media?  

“Even if someone agrees to be photographed, that doesn’t automatically mean they understand or consent to being shared online. Before posting, I consider how the image might impact them – today and in the future. Could it misrepresent them? Could it expose them to risk or stigma? I share responsibly, with context, and in a way that preserves dignity. And when possible, I ask permission specifically for social media use. 

When it comes to children, the responsibility is even greater. I never photograph or post images of children without clear, informed consent from a parent or guardian. Children cannot fully understand the long-term implications of having their image online, so it’s up to us as photographers to protect them. Even with parental consent, I’m mindful of the type of image, the context, and whether sharing it could put them at risk or violate their privacy. Their safety and dignity always come first.” 

The communities we work with and the schools we support deserve the same respect we would expect ourselves. That means always gaining consent before taking photos, and taking the lead from school principles, teachers, and our camp and project managers, as integrity and dignity are central to how Camps operates.

Lastly, can you give some tips for taking good portraits?  

“A strong portrait starts with connection – take a moment to speak with your subject, make them feel at ease, and build a bit of trust before lifting your camera. Don’t be afraid to get close; filling the frame with someone’s face or upper body draws the viewer in and reveals real emotion. Be mindful of levels and angles too: shooting from slightly below can give someone strength and presence, while photographing from above can soften or diminish them. Small shifts in your position can completely change how a person is perceived, so move with intention.”  

Travelling Responsibly Starts With Respect 

Camps International trips are designed to build cultural understanding, mutual respect, and positive impact. How you choose to photograph people is a meaningful part of that. By following Anna’s guidance – seeking consent, staying aware of cultural contexts, and remembering that a person is always more important than a picture – you’re helping ensure that your presence is respectful and that your images reflect the values of responsible travel.  

Feeling Right at Home

The Camps International staff are the kindest, most welcoming people you will ever meet, and each camp is so unique and instantly becomes your safe, happy place.

I have also made amazing friendships, as well as a long-distance best friend.

Upon arrival at each camp, you have camp orientation and briefing. You will have many briefings on your adventure; team briefings, safety briefings, project briefings, etc.

Daily Life on Expedition

Rough timings of the day* are:

• Breakfast at 7/7.30am
• Project 9am to 12pm.
• Lunch at 12.30pm.
• Project 2pm to 4/4.30pm.
• Snack at 4pm/4.30pm.
• Dinner at 7/7.30pm.
• Lights out at 10pm.

*Some daily timings may vary per group

Group Activities

Team Sungura had a routine every evening where we did sticker nominations, hat nominations, and our team journal.  This was one of my favourite parts of each day. Stickers were nominated by peers for random acts of kindness. Hat nominations for the Silly Simba hat were awarded to those who had done something stupid and made a fool of themselves. It was very entertaining! The group journal was written each day by a different member of the team. So, each night, the next person would be selected to write the next day’s journal entry.

First Stop: Camp Muhaka

Our first camp in Kenya was Camp Muhaka and this ended up being my favourite camp! The accommodation was bunk style rooms which had electricity and fans. The toilets were normal, the showers were cold, monkeys ran around camp and there was a campfire.

Our project on this camp was to build Mama’s house. The structure of the building had been put together by a previous team. Our task was to build the walls of the building by the end of our stay. We completed this and managed to start the flooring within the 3.5 days we had. To build the walls, we dug red soil up from the ground, collected water and mixed them together to create a muddy mixture! With this mixture, we formed balls which we carefully placed on the structure. Stones were placed between layers to provide support. After these walls dried, we created a looser consistency of the muddy mixture which we splatted to the walls to cover the stick structure. Other activities we did at this camp were climbing a coconut tree, trying coconut and coconut milk, making coconut rice and chapattis, visiting markets and visiting a tailor’s and playing football with the local community.

Sun, Sea and Scuba

Our second camp in Kenya was Diani Beach Camp. The accommodation was bunk style rooms, which had electricity, fans and Wi-Fi. The toilets were normal, the showers were hot, monkeys ran around camp, and there was a pool. Our projects on this camp involved a beach clean-up, a turtle talk, a microplastic survey and a flip flop craft activity. This weekend was less intense than other camps as we had to rest ready for scuba diving the following week. We had a rest day at the beach where we played team games in the Indian Ocean, saw camels walking on the beach, went to the markets and even out for lunch!

Scuba diving on my Kenya Scuba Expedition was next, at Camp Firefly. For some people, this was a highlight while for others it was a challenge and took a lot of perseverance. We slept in tents, but they were big enough for us to stand in! Once again, monkeys roamed freely around the camp. The PADI team were patient, kind and reassuring. Personally, I really struggled with training in a group so after conversations with my team teachers, leader and the PADI team, adjustments were made so I could work in a smaller group. I loved relaxing around the firepit and on the sofas with my team.

Exploring Tsavo

The fourth camp was Camp Ndoto, next door to Camp Tsavo. We stayed here for a week. The accommodation was bunk style rooms which had electricity. The toilets were long drop, the showers were cold, there was a firepit and the dining area was inside. Our projects on this camp involved working on a primary school, livestock deworming, elephant deterrent fences, visiting Rukinga Wildlife Conservation, going to Tsavo East National Safari Park and going on a trek up the Mangaru Hills.

At the local school we worked on flooring, building/laying bricks and painting. School had finished for the summer, so there weren’t many kids there (which was a little disappointing) but the children who were there were very friendly and keen to get involved. Goat deworming was my favourite project, everybody was working collaboratively, and we managed to deworm 94 goats but 6 ran away from us! We also danced with the local children and camp staff.

Elephant deterrent fencing was interesting and required the use of multiple skills. At Rukinga Wildlife Conservation we did two safaris, one which included a survey and talk from the staff. We also saw a beautiful sunset. It was exciting and interesting to learn about wildlife and the laws in place to protect them. The safari at Tsavo East National Park was amazing! We saw towers of giraffes, dazzles of zebras, elephants, impalas, giraffe gazelles, different species of birds, lions and a hippo! We then visited the Maasai Tribe afterwards, which highlighted the differences in our cultures. I found the trek (Eco Trek Marungu Hills) fun, despite the mini workout it was, and loved the views. We saw giraffes from the top of the hill! It still remains one of my favourite memories.

Final Stop: The Wildlife Foundation

Our final camp was at The Wildlife Foundation. We stayed here for 4 nights. The accommodation was bunk style rooms and there was a firepit, volleyball pitch, outdoor seating and an indoor dining area. Monkeys and baboons could be spotted on camp! There was only student access to electricity between 7 and 9pm, and there was no signal. Projects on this camp included a nature walk and camera trap installation, tree planting, gabion making, culture talk, making lion bomas, camera trap retrieval and a market visit.

The nature walks and camera trap installation and retrieval were so interesting. We learnt so many facts about the local area and Nairobi National Park. For example, Nairobi National Park homes 4 out of 5 of the big 5 since the elephant’s migration route got disrupted by humans. Gabion making and lion bomas required lots of skills which had yet to be used on camp. My favourite project at this camp was the culture talk since it highlighted the huge differences between our lives and the local people’s lives. It made me feel privileged for the luxuries I have. The final night at camp we had a campfire and sang songs and danced with the local staff. It was the best ending to the most amazing expedition.

Thinking of Going on a Camps International Expedition?

My advice to anyone who is considering signing up or has signed up is to ‘take on the world’ and ‘say yes to every opportunity’! You will only get this opportunity once, and I promise it is worth every second of it. I would do anything to go back.

Our Legacy of Impact 

Since we first opened our doors in 2002, we’ve had the privilege of working with more than 1,000 schools and inspiring over 55,000 young people around the world. Across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, our student travellers have contributed over 400,000 hours of hands-on project work, from community development and education to conservation initiatives. 

This work is more than numbers on a page. It is a legacy of meaningful change. Our Impact Report highlights how these experiences build global awareness, resilience, and responsibility in young people, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly complex world. 

Education That Reaches Beyond the Classroom

At the heart of what we do is our Real World Studies programme. We’ve designed these resources to bridge classroom learning with immersive, ethical, community-led projects. It means students don’t just learn about global challenges. They step into the real world and play a part in addressing them.

Expanding Across North America 

The exciting part of this expansion is that our North American schools will now benefit from the same proven model that UK schools already know and trust: 

• Immersive expeditions designed for experiential learning and cultural exchange. 

• Permanent, locally run camps across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, ensuring authentic, sustainable impact. 

• Curriculum-linked teacher resources that align with national standards and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

• A commitment to safety and sustainability, while helping students develop resilience, empathy, and leadership. 

Our Purpose 

Purpose has always been at the heart of our expeditions. Every trip, every project, and every partnership is driven by the belief that travel should create lasting positive change for our travellers, our partner communities and our planet. 

As we grow our presence in the U.S. and beyond, we’re excited to bring more schools, educators, and young people into this movement. Together, we can create life-changing experiences for students while continuing to deliver meaningful, measurable impact across the globe. 

Why Use Social Media?

• It can help with your long-term motivation and accountability knowing that you have people waiting to hear how you’re getting on
• Social media profiles can help spread awareness for the cause behind your expedition and why you’re excited to go
• You can share what expedition you’re going on and what projects you’re going to be involved with to lots of people at the same time
• Sharing fundraising targets and updates to lots of people at the same time helps with time management and organisation
• It gets people excited for you, which means they may be more likely to donate to your cause

Social Media Top Tips

• Start by thinking what platform you want to use. Instagram is often the most popular and has the most people already using it, so a good place to start.
• Choose a clear profile picture and a short but punchy bio to explain what your account is about
• Link to your fundraising platform in the bio so people can easily donate and see more background on your upcoming expedition
• Stay consistent with posting, so people know where you’re up to with your fundraising target. This also helps with Instagram knowing that you’re an active account that has things to say!
• Engage with your followers as much as you can. If people comment, reply back to them and start a conversation. It’s a great way to stay motivated, spark new ideas from a wider audience and signal to Instagram that your content is engaging and worth sharing with more people

What Should I Post?

• Be authentic, and show the highs and lows of your fundraising journey so people can see the effort you’re putting in
• Show all the steps, including the behind the scenes of organising the events and how they went. Did you bake cakes? Did you organise a fun run? What did you do to get there? People love to know how things work, and it will help inspire other fundraisers too
• Share more of the day-to-day organisation and behind the scenes on your stories, but post some of them to your feed too! It helps to make people feel involved and want to continue following your journey, and helps if they’ve missed out on your stories
• You can post about the ‘why’ behind the account, such as where you’ll be going on expedition and what you’ll be getting up to
• Take your photos in good lighting and don’t post anything blurry. They don’t have to be super aesthetic, but clear colourful photos help tell your story so much better
• Talk about your milestones, what upcoming fundraising events and activities you have going on
• Use story highlights to categorise old stories and keep certain stories available on your profile, such as one highlight for each activity, one for behind the scenes, and one for your current fundraising pot

Being Safe on Social Media

• Keep your location and full name private
• Only share what you feel comfortable with
• Don’t share your full address, school name or daily routines, or any other things personal to you
• Ask yourself “Would I be happy for a teacher, parent, or future employer to see this?”
• Stay respectful and avoid posting anything that could be seen as offensive, unkind, or too personal, as it can be hard to delete things forever once they’re online, even though you can delete your account
• If your account is public to raise more awareness for your fundraising, make sure you’re happy and comfortable with who’s following you
• Don’t feel bad about blocking or removing followers
• You can also get your parent or guardian to run your account or help you with content, replying to comments and monitoring your followers

Student Traveller Inspiration

We thought we would share some accounts who we feel have done a great job sharing their fundraising journey on social media!

Getting Crafty

Georgina is travelling to Borneo in 2025, and decided to take on lots of craft projects to raise her funds. She created an Instagram account called 3 Gen Crafts, and used it to promote the items she was making and selling.

We love the way that she took consistent photos of all her handmade jewellery, and showed a mix of close ups, market stall setups and people wearing her items.

She also mentioned her fundraising link in her bio, so that people could donate straight into her fund.

Safety was a key priority too, and we love the way she used a business name for the account and didn’t put her full name in the bio.

Graphic Design and Fundraising

Paige is travelling to Peru in 2026, and decided to create an Instagram account called NoDramaLLama26 to promote her fundraising efforts of cycling the length of Peru over 78 weeks, and climb the altitude of Machu Picchu in 10 days.

Instead of posting photos of her updates, she instead created a feed made up of graphic design posts, each showing how close she is to reaching her goal and what activity she achieved that week.

The colours stand out amazingly, and even though the graphics show a lot of information, they all work cohesively together to tell her story. In each caption, she explains more about how the challenge went that day, and so far she’s managed to raise an amazing £1,885 towards her expedition!

We love that she did something different and used colour and illustrations to document her journey. It definitely makes it stand out from the crowd!

Showing Your Fundraising Efforts

Lacie is travelling to Tanzania in 2026, and decided to create an Instagram account, lacie_tanzania_expedition.2026, to document her fundraising journey and promote all the different activities she was taking part in to reach her target.

We love the way she showed the mix of activities she’s been doing, including uploading to pre-loved clothing websites, car boot sales and making beaded jewellery and custom clothing.

She also noted that her Instagram page has helped her to share her story, and she was inspired to create it by other students travelling with Camps. She told us that the page has helped her visualise her journey and see how far she’s come, and she can’t wait to finally get out to Tanzania in 2026.

What to Do with Your Fundraising Instagram Account After Your Trip

A great way to round off your expedition and fundraising account is to post about your experience once you’re home. This can include photos and videos from your expedition, and a summary post – or a few summary posts – about how you found the experience and what you got up to whilst you were there.

This is a great way to update everyone about your return, and to show your sponsors and followers where their money went whilst you were fundraising.

It’s a lovely full circle moment for both you and the people that supported you along the way!

Your Journey, Your Voice

You don’t need thousands of followers or likes to be a content creator. If you’ve created content and posted it on social media, you’re already there! You also don’t need lots of followers or likes to make an impact on others and fundraise for your expedition, just sharing your journey and genuine passion can go a long way.

Every post helps tell a bigger story — and it’s all part of the adventure! Remember that it’s a great tool for edging closer towards your overall fundraising goal, but it’s also not worth becoming stressed over to keep updated every day.

There are also plenty of social media fundraising resources on the Traveller Gateway!

In her previous role as Technical Director at Camps International, Sharon oversaw global operational standards, ensuring safety and quality across all programs. She has also been a pivotal figure in the outdoor education sector as the Vice Chair of the Expedition Providers Association, where she leads the Technical Committee in shaping industry-wide safety regulations and crisis management protocols. Her expertise spans educational curriculum integration, safeguarding practices, and crisis response—qualities that make her uniquely suited for her new leadership role.

As the newly appointed Managing Director, Sharon is dedicated to amplifying Camps International’s mission of creating impactful educational experiences. She will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence while expanding the organisation’s influence in the UK, UAE and broader Gulf region. Her ultimate goal is to foster an understanding of global cultures and inspire personal growth through immersive expeditions.

Sharon Palmer, Managing Director at Camps International, said: “Stepping into this role is an honour and a deeply personal journey for me. Witnessing the transformative power of our expeditions—where students grow in confidence, resilience, and curiosity—is continually inspiring. I am committed to ensuring even more young people discover the world and themselves through these impactful experiences. I want to continue driving growth and delivering meaningful opportunities for these students while building on the existing legacy.”

Stuart Rees Jones, Chief Executive Officer at Impact Travel Group, said: “Sharon’s extensive leadership and deep understanding of education and expedition programs make her an excellent fit to lead Camps International in the UK and Middle East. The merger between Camps and Impact Travel Group has been pivotal in driving the organisation’s growth, enabling us to create transformative experiences that empower young people to become global citizens. With Sharon’s guidance, we are eager to continue providing opportunities that help young people grow, build resilience, and develop a meaningful connection to the wider world.”

Under Sharon’s guidance, Camps International will focus on creating immersive experiences and cultural exchanges that encourage meaningful conversations and personal growth. The transformative journeys help students grow in resilience and develop a deeper understanding of global cultures, making each expedition a unique and impactful experience.