From 10th to 14th November 2025, 43 students and 9 teachers from The British School (TBS) plunged into the wild beauty of Nepal’s Bhotekoshi region on an exhilarating Outdoor Leadership Expedition, expertly guided by Borderlands Leadership School. Over five action-packed days, they navigated rugged trails, camped under the stars, and honed skills in navigation, campcraft, route planning, and responsible travel—all in preparation for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Beyond mastering these essential skills, the journey tested their resilience, ignited leadership, and strengthened teamwork, leaving students inspired, confident, and forever changed by the adventure, camaraderie, and breathtaking landscapes of Nepal.
The expedition began with a scenic transfer to the Borderlands riverside campsite, with an initial stop at Sunkoshi Beach Resort. Upon arrival, students participated in a formal briefing focused on safety protocols, teamwork expectations, and environmental responsibility, particularly the “Leave No Trace” ethic. They then engaged in a series of skill-building workshops covering packing essentials, basic cooking techniques, first aid, and navigation. A map-based problem-solving activity strengthened group communication before students concluded the evening with a structured reflection session and their first night in tents.
On the second day, students took on the challenge of preparing full expedition packs containing tents, equipment, and provisions before beginning a long trek toward the Borderlands campsite, moving in staggered groups as they navigated forest paths, river crossings, and uneven terrain. Upon reaching the campsite, they pitched their tents, reviewed campsite safety procedures, cooked dinner using outdoor equipment, and gathered around a campfire to reflect on the day’s accomplishments. The following morning, they prepared their own breakfast, completed environmental checks, and began their mostly downhill return trek to Borderlands Resort, enjoying varied scenery, applying their growing confidence and navigational skills, taking a break at the picturesque Borderlands Falls for rest and lunch beside the river. During the evening of the hike back to the resort, a student birthday celebration was held, adding extra cheer to the journey. The day concluded with a structured Night Solo activity for quiet reflection, followed by a celebratory group dinner and final reflection session.
Students engaged in a rotation of adventure-based challenges designed to strengthen courage, balance, and collaboration, taking part in rock climbing, abseiling, the low-rope course, and the cooperative “Toxic Waste” team activity. Before dinner, they worked in groups to create artworks inspired by their journey and shared experiences, and the evening concluded with a campfire gathering, certificate presentations recognizing individual and group achievements, and closing reflections.
On the final morning, students shared personal highlights, insights, and lessons learned during a concluding reflection session. After packing their tents and completing a thorough campsite clean-up, the group bid farewell to Borderlands and returned to school. They arrived tired but proud, having gained valuable skills in leadership, resilience, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.
This five-day expedition provided a meaningful platform for growth and experiential learning. Borderlands Nepal and The British School extend their appreciation to all participating students and staff for their engagement, enthusiasm, and commitment throughout the program.