Learning Beyond the Classroom: How a Camps Expedition can Facilitate Positive Learning Experiences 

Written By Helen

So much of our learning is done in classrooms, but sometimes the most powerful lessons are taught beyond four walls.

This is where a Camps International expedition comes in. Going on a trip with Camps offers students the chance to learn through real-world experiences, helping them to develop a positive attitude towards challenge, learning and adventure. 

Hands-on learning experiences 

Instead of just reading about global issues, expeditions bring these topics to life as students take a hands-on approach to understanding the world around them. Whether they get stuck into environmental conservation projects or help to build infrastructure for local communities, students not only develop a more compassionate worldview but are given the opportunity to be part of the solution.  

This style of immersive learning supports what students have already learnt in school by giving them the chance to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. Sometimes global issues can feel a distant and abstract concept, but by engaging with and supporting the communities that are affected they become tangible and relevant. A Camps expedition helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice through hands-on learning and encourages a deeper understanding of the issues currently facing both people and planet.  

Embracing problem-solving and building resilience 

By nature, things don’t always go to plan on expedition. This provides students with the perfect opportunity to practice their problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Whether the team need to quickly adapt to a change of plans due to the weather or overcome a problem that has arisen during project work, situations like these teach students that challenges such as these are not setbacks but in fact opportunities to grow and learn.  

Not only are students developing resilience and flexibility, they are learning to stay calm under pressure, think creatively and support each other as a team. Skills like these are invaluable beyond the expedition, they’re essential for future education, career development and in personal relationships.  

Understanding the power of teamwork 

Teamwork plays a vital role in any Camps expedition, as students work together to navigate challenges and share responsibilities. Whether it’s during project work or simply playing a game of football in camp, everybody quickly learns that collaboration is key! 

Working as part of a team teaches students the value of communication, shared responsibility and diverse skillsets when it comes to working towards a shared goal. Students also get the opportunity to work alongside new people whilst on expedition, encouraging them to step outside of their social comfort zones and navigate different perspectives and working styles. This style of teamwork closely mirrors real-world scenarios and brings classroom lessons about the importance of working as a team, to life.  

Learning important lessons about yourself 

Choosing to go on a Camps expedition is a bold step and often marks the beginning of a new journey in self-development, from fundraising all the way to the trip itself. Stepping outside your comfort zone in unfamiliar environments encourages reflection and growth, with students often discovering hidden strengths in the process.  

For many, their expedition is the first time they have travelled without their family, or even out of the country at all. These new experiences foster a greater sense of independence for students as they take on new responsibilities, make decisions for themselves and adapt to new cultures. 

All of our expeditions help bring learning to life by bringing lessons outside the classroom, helping students build confidence, resilience, and a better understanding of global issues. These trips help students grow as individuals whilst making real impact in the communities they visit.