For two weeks, 16 pupils from the Kimbolton School, including a mix of 5th and L6th form, participated in a transformative expedition in eSwatini (formerly known as Swaziland) and South Africa. Collaborating with World Challenge and AllOutAfrica, the students camped in the wild and cooked over open fires, fully embracing the challenges and beauty of nature.

The expedition began with a meaningful task: helping to build a community clinic at a Neighbourhood Care Point in Phosela. This project is vital for families and children affected by the HIV and AIDS crisis in eSwatini, where over 50,000 children were orphaned as of 2022.

The pupils assisted in the initial stage of clearing the ground, removing trees and bushes, and spent time with the pre-school aged children who received care, food, and basic English lessons at the centre. The clinic project is entirely voluntary, run by community members and led by an inspirational woman called Thandezile Shongwe, whose vision includes establishing a primary and secondary school to prevent children from having to walk two to three hours to attend school.

After four emotional, fulfilling and rewarding days in Phosela, the group set off on a challenging four-day hike along the Ngwempesi Gorge. The pupils camped in the wild, sourcing water from rivers and cooking over open fires, while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The hike concluded with a steep climb to Rock Lodge, offering stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

The final leg of the journey took the students to Kruger National Park for two days of safari. Although they did not encounter rhinos, which were further north, they were thrilled to see four of the big five - however, they did manage to catch a glimpse of a herd of rhinos at a watering hole while at a service station.

Photo gallery can be found here.

The expedition photos only offer a brief insight into the students' experiences in eSwatini. This journey proved to be more than just an adventure—it was a life-changing experience for all involved.