A group of teenagers from St Ninian’s High School are embarking on the trip of a lifetime this summer.

Thirteen sixth formers are heading across the world to China and Tibet, to learn more about different cultures and experience independent travel.

The group of 17 and 18 year olds have devised the 28-day trip themselves but will be accompanied by a professional expedition leader, school teacher and local guides in Tibet to ensure their trip is a safe one.

It’s the first time a trip of this magnitude has been undertaken by pupils from St Ninian’s High School.

With 'gap years' now a key experience for many young people, this trip aims to help the sixth formers prepare on all levels for any independent travel they may undertake in the future.

The students have budgeted the trip and planned their own routes and modes of transport (including yaks!), but will still have to find accommodation once the trip is underway.

They have all worked hard over the past few months raising thousands of pounds to put towards the cost of the trip, plus any other spending money they may need. Events to raise funds will continue until they set off on 18th July.

St. Ninian’s teacher Mr Matt Harvey is onboard the trip to offer support and guidance should any issues arise.

He said ‘Having travelled to a number of places around the world myself, I think that the trip is a fantastic opportunity to

experience new cultures and see what the world has to offer by travelling and working alongside local Chinese and Tibetan

people.

‘It is also an important part of the pupil’s own self – development. The students are so enthusiastic about the trip and have been squeezing in weekly meetings, training sessions, and raising money, all during their A-level studies!

‘We have been on a strenuous camping and trekking expedition around the Isle of Man to prepare ourselves physically for what to expect. The trip will be a fantastic experience for all involved.’