Catching Waves, Culture, and Lifelong Lessons

Seven days. Countless waves. One unforgettable adventure. In Bali, our Grade 9 and 10 students dove headfirst into the world of Surf Culture Bali—where the beach became their classroom and each wave a lesson in resilience, balance, and courage. From learning how to pop up on their boards and switch stance mid-ride to playing games like rock, paper, scissors while surfing, students embraced the ocean with enthusiasm (and a few wipeouts too!). A nippers/surf lifesaving session introduced vital water safety and rescue skills, reinforcing the importance of responsibility in the sea.

The journey then moved inland to Penge Village, where students experienced the heart of Balinese culture. Whether cooking local delicacies, wading through muddy rice paddies, or crafting traditional arts, they immersed themselves in daily life and hospitality during village homestays. Authentic food, warm welcomes, and hands-on experiences brought new meaning to intercultural connection.

A heartfelt thank you to UWCSEA staff—Teshil Gangaram, Benjamin Clapp, Evelyn Wong, Maria Claire Carvalho, Sandra Helmig, and Irvin Torralba; ISSC staff—Colin Kuit, Lorraine Lapus, Matthew Machel Cox, and Sydney Steenland; and Penge Village organizers led by Nyoman Suardana for making this enriching experience possible.

Shaka to unforgettable memories!

Kayaking Through the Wild Beauty of West Papua

For the 2025 participants of the Grade 9 Kayaking expedition, Raja Ampat was more than just a destination—it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Immersed in the breathtaking seascapes of West Papua, students paddled through turquoise waters, navigated past remote islands, and explored thriving coral reefs teeming with marine life. From playful dolphins and graceful turtles to majestic manta rays, each encounter was a vivid reminder of the ocean’s magic.

The expedition challenged students to go beyond their comfort zones. They learned essential hard skills—sea kayaking, navigation, and snorkelling—while also developing leadership, adaptability, and the art of self-management. The physical demands of strong currents, wind, waves, and relentless sun were met with resilience and teamwork. At day’s end, students found rest and reflection at their peaceful beachfront accommodations, surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty.

By the final paddle, every student had earned a deep sense of accomplishment and left with incredible stories to tell. This journey wasn’t just about exploring the wild—it was about discovering strength within themselves.

Huge thanks to Esperanza, Nathan, and the Kayak Asia team for guiding this unforgettable experience!

Climb, Paddle, Explore, Grow

The Grade 9 Krabi Expedition was a true test of spirit, strength, and curiosity. Against the stunning backdrop of limestone cliffs and tropical coastlines, students embraced every challenge thrown their way—rock climbing towering crags, rappelling down cliffs at Railay Beach, kayaking through winding mangroves, and venturing into hidden caves.

Students pushed past their comfort zones, supported each other through every climb and paddle, and discovered a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them. With guidance from our experienced UWCSEA staff and expert partners at Progression Adventures, this journey was thoughtfully planned to ensure safety, fun, and meaningful learning throughout.

Here’s to bold leaps, shared laughs, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Riding Rapids and Building Bridges in Rishikesh

From first splash to final surge, our students dove headfirst into an unforgettable five-day whitewater rafting adventure on the glacial waters of the upper Ganges River. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Rishikesh, this expedition took students from never having stepped into a raft to confidently guiding one through exhilarating Grade II rapids.

But the experience wasn’t just about adrenaline. Students built meaningful connections across campuses, discovered the cultural and historical richness of Rishikesh, and deepened their understanding of India’s natural beauty. Each twist and turn of the river offered both challenge and reflection, turning this trip into a powerful outdoor classroom.

A Journey of Rapids, Resilience and Reflection

The Grade 9 Paddle Nepal expedition was more than just an adventure—it was a powerful blend of challenge, culture, and connection. Over five unforgettable days, students navigated the Lower Seti River, developing their kayaking techniques, learning to read the water, and building trust as a team to tackle the rapids head-on.

But the learning didn’t stop at the river’s edge. Students were welcomed into a local Nepali village, where they experienced rural life firsthand, engaged with the community, and gained meaningful insight into Nepal’s rich traditions and culture.

Massive thanks to the UWCSEA Outdoor Education team, our expert local guides, and all those behind the scenes who made this transformative trip possible.

A Wild Journey Through Western Australia

Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, the scent of eucalyptus in the air, and the first rays of sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. No screens, no noise—just the essentials on your back and adventure waiting at your feet. That’s exactly what our Grade 9 students experienced on their unforgettable journey through the Cape region of Western Australia.

Over several days, students explored some of Western Australia’s most stunning and diverse landscapes—from towering forests to rugged coastlines and ancient limestone caves. Each day brought a new adventure: hiking through native bushland, discovering hidden caves, navigating along the coastline, and learning how to cook nourishing meals under the stars.

More than just an outdoor trip, this was a chance for students to live simply and intentionally. With no digital distractions, they learned to manage their time and gear, take responsibility for themselves and each other, and embrace both the independence and interdependence that come with life in the wild. They found joy in the small things: sharing stories around the campfire, mastering the art of setting up camp, and falling asleep under a sky scattered with stars.

The Kumano Kodo Expedition

Cherry blossoms drifting in the breeze, towering cedar forests whispering stories of the past, and the rhythmic crunch of boots on an ancient trail—this was the setting for an unforgettable journey along Japan’s sacred Kumano Kodo.

Over 4 to 5 days, our students covered more than 80 kilometers and climbed between 3,000 to 4,000 meters in elevation, each step a challenge met with grit, teamwork, and a deepening sense of purpose.

The Kumano Kodo is one of only two UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes in the world, a spiritual path that has been walked for over a thousand years. Winding through the Kii Mountain Range to the revered Kumano Sanzan shrines, the trail offered our students more than just natural beauty—it offered perspective. It invited reflection, resilience, and respect for the countless pilgrims who had walked these trails before.

Along the way, they learned how to pitch tents efficiently, cook meals as a group, and care for themselves and each other in an environment far from their daily routines. Despite the physical demands, the group pressed on—encouraging one another, overcoming fatigue, and finding joy in simplicity.

Adding to the magic of the experience was the timing. The sakura season was in full bloom, blanketing the trail in pink and white petals and transforming each village, shrine, and mountain pass into a breathtaking scene. The beauty of the cherry blossoms, symbolising both impermanence and renewal, echoed the transformative spirit of the expedition itself.

More than just a hike, this was a chance for students to grow in confidence, independence, and empathy. Bonds were formed. Limits were tested. And through it all, a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, history, and nature took root.

Life at Sea on the One & All

Eight days. One tall ship. Twenty-three Grade 9 students. Countless memories.

Our recent expedition aboard the STV One & All saw students trade classrooms for the open sea, embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime tall ship adventure along the stunning coastline of South Australia. This wasn’t a cruise—it was a full immersion into life as a sailor, where every student was part of the working crew.

Split into three rotating watches—Port, Middle, and Starboard—they learned to helm the vessel, set and trim sails, climb the towering shrouds, tie complex knots, and stand vigilant as lookouts. Daily life aboard wasn’t all starry skies and sea breezes—students took on all duties, including scrubbing the decks, polishing brass, and keeping the ship shipshape.

The learning curve was steep. Early days were filled with seasickness, rope burn, and sore muscles—but also wonder, pride, and dolphin sightings. The crew guided students through three days of intensive training, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to do something extraordinary: take full command of the ship.

Yes—on days 4 through 6, students led every aspect of the voyage. Navigation, watch changes, sail handling, and steering the course—it was all them. With the support of the One & All’s professional crew and the UWCSEA staff team, our students showed leadership, trust, and resilience under pressure. Whether managing late-night watches or navigating changing weather, they worked together and rose to every challenge.

This expedition was far more than just a sailing trip. It was a deep dive into teamwork, courage, and self-reliance. Students stepped far out of their comfort zones—and found capability and confidence they didn’t know they had.

Huge thanks to the dedicated and generous crew of the STV One & All for mentoring, supporting, and inspiring our students. And to the UWCSEA staff team—Katherine, Jay, and Nadia —for helping make this journey one our students will never forget.

Vertical Limits and Village Life

What happens when you take a group of adventurous UWCSEA students, drop them into the heart of rural Yangshuo, China, and tell them they’ll be climbing real rock for seven days straight?

Surrounded by the dramatic limestone karsts that make Yangshuo a world-famous climbing destination, students spent the week scaling new heights—both literally and figuratively. Each day brought a new challenge: early mornings in the chill mountain air, routes that tested strength and nerve, and the thrill of reaching the top and taking in the view. But the trip was about more than just the climb.

This expedition was also a deep dive into cultural immersion and simple living. Students navigated the ins and outs of rural life—whether that meant adapting to local bathrooms, trying unfamiliar food in humble village restaurants, or learning how to slow down and truly be present.

Meals were shared, fears were faced, and laughs were plentiful. And somewhere between gripping handholds and cheering each other on, something remarkable happened: students built resilience, trust, independence, and friendships that will last long after the final climb.

This is the essence of a UWCSEA expedition—not just adventure for its own sake, but challenge with purpose. A week to step out of your comfort zone, discover what you're made of, and be reminded of the power of nature, culture, and community.

Massive thanks to the incredible staff team—Francis, Michelle, Jennifer, Maureen, and Jeremy—and to our inspiring local partners at Terratribes, whose passion and expertise made this journey unforgettable.

Here’s to climbs, connections, and memories that will keep us looking up.