THIS summer, 17 pupils from the Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk, embarked on an extraordinary adventure to Ecuador as part of the Camps International programme. Camps International is a social enterprise that offers sustainable travel and school expeditions for students. It is made up of over 200 educational resources, and it enables both teachers and students to link directly with their in-country teams to discuss global issues.

Over four incredible weeks, the pupils dedicated their time to meaningful community work, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences in nature. In the breathtaking Andean Highlands, the group spent two weeks contributing to local communities. They transformed a primary school by painting a basketball court, laying 50 meters of pavement, and creating a vibrant mural. The pupils even laid the foundations for a new classroom. In addition to this, they built a greenhouse, renovated two classrooms, and constructed a guinea pig house for a local family. Their time in the Highlands was further enriched by embracing Ecuadorian culture through traditional dancing and undertaking a challenging hike to 3,700 metres.

The journey continued as the group ventured into the Amazon rainforest, spending a week at the Chilli Urku Camp. Here, they slept in hammocks, worked on developing a school garden and library, and explored the jungle. The pupils were deeply grateful to the local community for making this leg of the trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The final week took the group to Cotopaxi National Park, where they completed an 80km trek over five days, summiting Pasochoa at an impressive 4200 metres.

Mr Millington, Head of Design & Technology at RHS, who accompanied the pupils, praised the trip, saying: "This experience reflected many of the school's core values such as giving back to the community, charitable work and partnership. The pupils not only contributed to charitable work but also immersed themselves in local life by visiting homes, participating in cultural activities, and engaging in friendly games of football. It was wonderful to witness their growth in confidence and character, especially during the demanding trek. It was a pleasure to lead the group in Ecuador, and I hope they carry lifelong memories from this adventure."

Mrs O'Callaghan, Head of PRE at RHS, who led the expedition, added: "The Camps International Ecuador trip was amazing, brilliant, and challenging! Alongside seeing animals, communities, and stunning landscapes, I had the privilege of watching our students develop new skills and grow in confidence. Their impact on the communities was truly inspiring. I want to thank the students and my colleague, Mr Millington, for making this journey such a success—well done to everyone!"

RHS pupils who took part in the trip commented: "I loved every minute of the experience, my highlight was two nights deep into the Amazon with only a hammock separating me from the rainforest." - Rufus, Year 13 

"A once in a lifetime experience. However, I will never have a bucket shower again!" - Ben, Year 12 

"This was an experience that tested our comfort zones but rewarded us with a unique perspective on life in the Amazon. Falling asleep to the loud sounds of the jungle was slightly scary for some but was overall an amazing experience." - Sophia, Year 11 

RHS is incredibly proud of the pupils' achievements and the positive difference they made in the communities they visited in Ecuador. Their efforts, determination, and openness to new cultures have left them with memories and cultural experiences that will last a lifetime.