This July three Shenfield High school pupils joined 19 other boys and girls on a once in a lifetime trip to Kenya. After nearly two years of fundraising their efforts paid off in a big way as they were rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime. The students experienced a wide variety of physical and mental challenges as well as community projects and some hard earned rest and recuperation.

The group kicked off by tackling the gruelling 5 day mountain trek, exploring the stunning (and slightly Scottish) landscapes from open savannahs through equatorial rainforests towards Point Lenana on Mount Kenya – the second highest mountain in Africa. Reaching the summit at sunrise in sub-zero temperatures was the big highlight and an achievement that the students will talk about for many years to come. Throughout their 4 weeks in country the group experienced different community, school and wildlife volunteering opportunities, interacting with the locals and helping to preserve the rich wildlife of Kenya.

The trip culminated in opportunities to experience this wildlife first hand, through a game drive and a safari through the exceptional Tsavo National Park. The group caught glimpses of elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, monkeys and buffalo among other indigenous animals. After the incredible safari experience the group spent their last days recuperating and soaking up the last of the Kenyan sun and culture at the idyllic Diani Beach resort.