South Africa Trip

In the last two weeks of July, 32 students and 5 staff travelled to the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve in South Africa for what has become our biannual rhino conservation trip.

This was by far the largest group we have taken to Mankwe and, without doubt, it was the best. The students rolled their sleeves up and got stuck in from day one. They adapted to camplife so completely that Mr Gould thought he would have difficulty coaxing them back onto the plane to London!

Whilst there, all students took part in a range of activities that both go to help with the upkeep of the reserve but also add incredibly useful scientific data to help in the fight for conservation across Africa. What made this trip extra special was that our former head student, Alexia, who came on the trip in 2024, is now working as a volunteer on the reserve. A number of the students who came this time are also seriously thinking of following her example once their exams are over.

It is far better to hear from the students themselves:

“It was the most unforgettable trip, being surrounded by amazing people from all over with countless stories was truly an incredible experience. Being able to learn about all the different species in the bush and how to identify them based on distinct features was definitely a favourite activity of mine and is something I will remember for the rest of my life.” - Anastasia

“South Africa gave me 10 days that still do not feel real. I am grateful I got to see it, to feel that small in the best way, it was the sort of experience that rewires you and makes protecting this earth feel less like a duty and more like love. Some things cannot be translated into words but are carried with you for the rest of your life and Mankwe was one of them. I am already planning how to get back.” - Eve

“Absolutely amazing and one of the greatest experiences of my life, the opportunity to see all the wildlife is truly once in a lifetime.” - Max

“Genuinely trip of a lifetime, with lifelong memories. It's impossible to put into words how good it really is, but you just have to go, I certainly am soon!” - Ethan

“I left South Africa behind with a piece of my heart.” - Avantika

And the final quote comes from Megan who is the coordinator for the Nkombi Volunteer Programme:

“This isn’t just the best group of students you’ve brought from Ruislip High School, it is the best group we have ever had at Mankwe! ”