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In July, a group of 27 sixth form students, accompanied by three staff members, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Zambia. Leaving the comforts of the UK behind, they prepared to live off-grid in mud huts and dedicate themselves to a range of impactful projects at Cameron’s Orphanage and School.

From the moment they arrived, the students and staff eagerly dove into their tasks, embracing new skills and challenges. Whether it was bricklaying, gardening, painting, cleaning, cooking, teaching, or even entertaining the orphanage children, everyone contributed with enthusiasm and determination.

The group fully embraced the local culture, self-catering by shopping in the bustling local markets and cooking on traditional charcoal braziers. One memorable evening, they hosted the orphanage staff and children, preparing a meal entirely on their own. The night was filled with joy, featuring an impromptu concert that revealed hidden talents among the students, followed by a heartfelt performance from the children. It was an evening that left lasting, poignant memories.

Over the course of six days, the team accomplished a remarkable array of tasks:

• Re-painted the interior of the orphanage
• Constructed a runoff for the newly restored water pump
• Assisted in building a water tower and storage room
• Repaired the rain step around the orphanage
• Fixed the school toilets
• Purchased new mattresses for the orphanage
• Enhanced the vegetable garden and built a compost heap
• Painted murals on the orphanage walls

After their hard work, the group traveled south to Livingstone, where they undertook a challenging two-day trek along the Zambezi River. The trek included a night of wild camping under the stars, followed by a visit to the breathtaking Victoria Falls. The adventure concluded with a safari in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, providing a fitting end to an extraordinary experience.

The students and staff returned home exhausted but filled with a deep sense of accomplishment and memories that will last a lifetime.