This summer, students from Years 9–13 embarked on the Global Action Nepal Annapurna Expedition, a cross-curricular expedition to Nepal bringing together culture, community engagement and physical endurance. A key part of the expedition was the opportunity to support local charity initiatives, including a School Community Project aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for Clean Water and Sanitation.

Over two transformative weeks, students explored Kathmandu, trekked through the Annapurna foothills and led vital community service projects. Working alongside local builders and communities to help restore vital infrastructure, supporting safe and sustainable access to clean drinking water and hygienic facilities for local schoolchildren and villagers.

In addition they participated in workshops with leading non-governmental organisations such as the Gurkha Welfare Trust, who aid healthcare and educational development in the region.

The journey began in Kathmandu with a visit to the sacred Boudhanath Stupa. Students took part in monk-led chanting and received traditional blessings.

Later, the group visited Sungabha Nepal, an Non-Government Organisation (NGO) supporting disabled women. Students learned about sustainable social enterprise and took part in a hands-on workshop, creating felt coasters while hearing more about the organisation’s work.

The group then split into Team A and Team B for the journey to Pokhara. They traveled six hours through beautiful countryside and bumpy roads to reach their bases.

The students then began the first of two rotations, with Team B undertaking a five-day trek through the Annapurna foothills while Team A began community project work at Patnyari Basic School in the Tashiling Tibetan Settlement.

On Day 8, the teams swapped roles. Team A began their trek into the mountains with trek leader Sushil. Team B settled into Tashiling to continue the construction work.

Team B completed the water tank excavation for Shree Amarjyoti Gaunpharka School. They bonded with the local school children and celebrated their achievements culminating their time in the community with a cultural evening.

Meanwhile, Team A reached Ghandruk, exploring local museums and mountain views before returning safely to Pokhara.

Reunited in Kathmandu, both teams visited the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), where Vice Ambassador Pippa Bird shared inspiring insights into Nepal’s political progress and future outlook.

Students then toured the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), learning about flood control, organic farming and sustainable living.

On the final day, the group visited Kopan Monastery and the famous Swayambhu Temple. The expedition ended with a celebratory dinner and an awards ceremony at the hotel. All students returned home with new skills, deeper global awareness and memories to last a lifetime.

The Global Action Nepal Annapurna Expedition was far more than a physical challenge. It gave students the opportunity to learn and build connections across cultures, while developing a greater understanding of global issues.