There is no doubt that overseas learning experiences can benefit all participating students and staff in many ways – from increased connection to existing curriculum to developing a service-based culture to enhancing school – community partnerships. However, the quality of the itinerary and the time spent preparing students for their experience can really serve to ramp up outcomes and the potential capacity for future partnerships. Here’s a few ideas:-

• Use a travel company who is prepared to work flexibly with you to develop an itinerary based around your desired learning outcomes. This could mean having a history/geography/arts/culture/language focus for example.
• Incorporate a component of social justice learning and experience into your itinerary wherever possible. This will really value add to the outcomes of the experience and will give your students the opportunity to really connect with local communities in the country they visit.
• Work on the idea of a ‘project’ rather than a ‘trip’. Recruit students on the basis of their ability to contribute to the team, rather than just their ability to pay. Ensure that they understand that their involvement will include team fundraising for a social justice project, pre-trip learning and community activity.