5 MYTHS ABOUT AN EXPEDITION

Myth one: I can’t afford to go on expedition

Debunked: At Outlook, it’s important our expeditions are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It’s not about how much money you have and whether you have the means to simply pay for the trip up front. Think instead of an expedition as a personal savings account – the more you put in, the more you get out.

That’s why self-funding is such a core element of the Outlook Programme, and why we provide resources and guidance to help you pay for your expedition, your way. From starting small businesses, to taking part in physical challenges, our students are always coming up with innovative ways to generate the funds for their adventure.

Not only does this pay your way to your expedition, but students also find this phase of the programme valuable for growing their confidence levels, allowing them to take ownership, set goals, and gain a greater understanding of key life skills including money management and planning.

Myth two: I don’t have the time to give to an expedition when my studies are so important

Debunked: In 2019, Ofsted rolled out their character education framework in which it said that: “Character and resilience are as crucial to young people’s future success as academic qualifications”. Of course, academic learning must always be a priority, but it is vital that personal development shares the spotlight.

As a valuable future asset for young people, Mental Health charity, Mind, describes resilience as, “not just a person’s ability to bounce back, but also their capacity to adapt in the face of challenging circumstances, whilst maintaining stable mental wellbeing.”

Therefore, no matter how academically gifted someone may be, they are far less likely to succeed if they lack key qualities such as resilience and the tools to overcome life's challenges.

An expedition provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to develop these essential life skills which will enable them to become effective leaders in their own lives, equipped with the necessary tools to reach their full potential.

Myth three: I’m not the type of person that goes on expedition, I wouldn’t have any friends in the team

There is no one “type” of person that goes on expedition, but if there is something which can be said for all the thousands of students we’ve travelled with over the years, it’s that none of them stepped off the plane the same person they were when they stepped onto it.

That’s because an expedition provides the opportunity for individuals to learn more about who are they are, and where they want to go. It provides a new lens to see their place in the world more clearly, the space to question what they want to achieve in life, and the moments that will help shape how they get there.

They may well join a team alone, but there are no strangers here, only friends they haven’t met yet. The connections built between expedition teammates are strong links, bound by shared experience, challenge, and memories that will last a lifetime.

So yes, you may join a team alone…but that’s just the start of your adventure!

Myth four: Expeditions aren’t right for my school, we already run lots of other residential trips

An expedition combines the adventure of a ski trip, the culture of a foreign exchange, the camaraderie of a sports tour – and so much more! Unlike other school trips, an expedition takes students out of their comfort zone and into a world of possibilities. Only by learning through challenge can students gain a new sense of self, with improved confidence, resilience, and the ability to tackle life’s challenges effectively.

An expedition is an in-depth programme, dedicated to student development. Comparing such a life-altering adventure with other residential opportunities is comparing two entirely opposing worlds. While a more traditional school trip of course has its merits, one delivers short term gains, and the other delivers fundamental change. The powerful learning outcomes of expedition shouldn’t be underestimated by being classed as one of the same!

Myth five: As a teacher, I’m not sure I have the experience to launch an expedition at my school

As much as an expedition aids student development, it also provides opportunities for teacher career progression and life enrichment. We work with teachers at all stages of their career, from all walks of life. From experienced residential trip leaders passionate about the outdoors and multi-lingual culture-seekers; to those who have never slept a night under canvas, or never stepped foot on a plane!

At Outlook, we go at your pace, providing all the support you need. We understand that, as teachers, you have a lot to juggle without adding an expedition into the mix. But we also know that our teachers – like us – are passionate about student development and want to provide the opportunity for their young people to experience life beyond their comfort zones. That’s why we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way. From having a dedicated Programme Manager on hand to keep you on track with important milestones in the UK, to partnering with an experienced Expedition Leader when overseas who ensures the safety of the team at all times.