World Challenge offers life-changing expeditions that empower students to step outside their comfort zones, develop leadership skills, and experience new cultures. Designed for schools, these expeditions take participants to incredible destinations like Nepal, Peru, and Tanzania, where they engage in trekking, community projects, and cultural immersion.

Trinity Anglican School (TAS), a leading private school in Cairns, has participated in seven expeditions to date. Whether trekking through mountains, working on sustainability projects, or connecting with local communities, World Challenge expeditions continue to provide TAS students with a unique opportunity to experience personal growth and adventure. It’s more than just travel—it’s a journey of self-discovery and global citizenship, reinforcing the values of education beyond the classroom.

In December 2024, 18 Year 10 and 11 students from TAS embarked on a 22-day World Challenge Expedition to Nepal—a land of towering peaks, vibrant cultures, and centuries-old traditions. However, the expedition began long before departure. Over 18 months, students prepared through regular meetings, training treks, and group fundraising efforts. Through food stalls, bake sales, and social media promotions, they successfully raised over $3,500 to support their adventure.

Please enjoy this account by student participants Luke Berther, Phoebe Halkidis, James Pereira, and Mackenzie Osmond.

After a one-night stopover in Singapore, we landed in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. As soon as we arrived at the International Airport, the buzz of the city was unmistakable. Kathmandu’s streets are a chaotic blend of honking scooters weaving through narrow alleyways, and street vendors offering everything from spicy food to handmade crafts. The air was thick with history, religion, and the smell of incense wafting from temples.

We spent the first two nights exploring the city, where centuries-old palaces and buildings stood against the modern cityscape. The intricate wood carvings, towering pagodas, prayer flags, and sacred shrines were reminders of Nepal’s rich cultural and religious history. The journey then continued with an overnight whitewater rafting safari and some acclimatisation and preparation days around the picturesque lake at Pokhara.

We continued to a nearby school where we undertook several days of community service. A highlight was the interaction with the local children, where we taught English, shared in games, and learnt some Nepalese language. We even taught them the Nutbush dance and performed Leichhardt’s song ‘Firework’ for them. Our fundraising efforts at home allowed us to contribute over $2,000 to purchase further building materials and sporting equipment for the school.

One evening, we had the privilege of joining a local teacher in her home for a traditional Nepalese meal. The food was delicious, and it was served with an openness and hospitality that made us feel at home.

Back in Kathmandu, we visited the Monkey Temple. The temple is perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the city. As we climbed the steep stairs to reach the stupa, the playful monkeys added a bit of cheekiness to the sacred atmosphere.

Next was a 10-hour harrowing drive up to the Himalayas, which signalled the start of our eight-day trek. It was a challenge trekking in the Himalayas in winter, with us trekking in cold, windy, icy conditions at temperatures down to minus 10 degrees. We stayed in teahouses along the 60km trekking route in the Langtang Valley and learnt about Nepal from our guides.

The trek was an unforgettable experience. Every day brought new challenges and awe-inspiring views. As we walked through dense forests and open alpine plains, the various animals such as yaks and monkeys added vibrancy to the landscape, and the sounds of rushing snowmelt rivers were a constant companion. The trek itself also offered a deeper connection to the landscape. The Himalayas are not just physical mountains; they are sacred to the people of Nepal. Every river, every stone, and every peak has its own spiritual meaning.

The highlight of the trek was reaching the summit of Kyanjin Ri, at an altitude of 4,400m. Standing at the peak, we felt an overwhelming sense of achievement. The vastness of the mountains and their snow-covered peaks glowing in the early morning light was humbling. It was a moment of pure awe—and a memory that will stay with us forever.

While the trek was undoubtedly the physical highlight of the trip, it was the people and the culture of Nepal that made the experience truly unforgettable. From the monks chanting their prayers in the monasteries to the guides and sherpas sharing their stories, we were all deeply moved by the kindness and generosity of the Nepalese people. This is an experience that will stay with us forever.

As a final gesture of giving, we used our remaining fundraising money to sponsor a child for two years to help her finish her education. This experience was life-changing for us. We have returned better people—more grateful for what we have, more willing to help others, and more skilled at working with others. We’d encourage other students from Cairns schools to look for opportunities like this one and grab them with both hands.

At Trinity Anglican School, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and experiences like the World Challenge Nepal expedition exemplify the power of global learning. Whether you are looking for a private school in Cairns that values leadership, adventure, and hands-on education, or seeking opportunities for meaningful student development, TAS provides an environment where young minds thrive.

For families looking at schools in Cairns, TAS offers students a chance to grow academically, socially, and emotionally while taking part in extraordinary programs like World Challenge. To learn more about our global programs and curriculum, visit our website or contact us today.