The trip, organised in partnership with Camps International, marks the first time in 12 years that students from 17 different Outwood secondary schools joined the same expedition.

Students and staff spent four weeks in Cambodia, exploring Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Students were involved in community initiatives(Image: Supplied)

The expedition offered a unique, hands-on learning experience, contributing to 10 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The Outwood students participated in activities including environmental work, community initiatives, and even obtained an open water diving certification.

This initiative provided a platform for personal growth, aiding the development of essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural awareness.

Students worked on local environmental projects.(Image: Supplied)

Glenn Hughes, a learning manager at Outwood Academy Normanby in Middlesbrough, was one of the chaperones on the trip.

He said: “The experience in Cambodia was life-changing for many of our students.

“Being able to experience a different culture and develop themselves in many different ways is invaluable.

“The support and guidance from Camps International, as well as their enthusiasm and obvious love for the job, rubbed off on everyone.

The group contributed to 10 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals(Image: Supplied)

“JP and Jess helped so much over the month.

“If I had one criticism, it was that we were unable to stay longer than we did.

“I would recommend Camps International expeditions to anyone; it was amazing right from the start.”

Lacie, a student from Outwood Academy Shafton in Barnsley, said: “The trip was great and I made some new friends who I speak to every day.

“It made me do things that I’d never done before and will probably never get to do again.

“I also learnt to be more appreciative of what I have at home and not take things such as my education for granted.”

Jessica, another Shafton student, added: “Going to Cambodia was the most amazing experience I have ever had and I doubt anything that I do in my life will surpass it.

“I loved feeling like I had really helped people and that I had impacted their lives.

“It has made me look into more ways I can help different communities.

“The expedition was so much fun and given the chance, I would go again in a heartbeat.”

Planning for the next expedition to Borneo in the summer of 2027 is already underway.