At True Adventure, we believe that school expeditions are a powerful tool for promoting personal growth, building self-confidence, and empowering girls to become leaders. From developing new skills and perspectives to fostering lifelong friendships, the benefits of school expeditions for girls are truly immeasurable. But, ‘research has consistently indicated that females are more likely than males to avoid or be deterred from participating in outdoor recreation because of gender-normative expectations, a lack of exposure, a lack of role models, and fear’ – featured in the MDPI Education Sciences report Helping Girls “Find Their Voice” in the Outdoors.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the ways that school expeditions can positively benefit girls’ lives.
Encourages Independence, Self-Reliance And Builds Confidence
Girls must venture outside of their comfort zones, take on new challenges, and rely on their own abilities when participating in school expeditions. This can lead to increased confidence and a greater sense of independence.
According to studies, girls who engage in outdoor activities like hiking and camping have higher levels of self-esteem and are more likely to take on leadership roles in the future.
Builds Teamwork And Collaboration Skills
School expeditions provide opportunities for girls to join forces and work together in new and unfamiliar environments. By learning to work as a team and rely on each other’s strengths and understand each other’s weaknesses, girls can develop valuable teamwork and collaboration skills.
In fact, a study by the Girl Scout Research Institute found that girls who participate in outdoor activities with their peers have higher levels of social bonding and teamwork skills than those who don’t.
Promotes Physical And Mental Health
Physical activity and outdoor exploration is usually what is encountered on a School expedition. From trekking to canoeing to building vegetable gardens for communities, it can be physically challenging but has numerous health benefits such as improved physical fitness, boost in mood, and a reduction in stress and anxiety via a release in endorphins.
Research also shows that spending time in nature can improve cognitive function, increase attention span, and improve academic performance.
Fosters Cultural Awareness And Understanding
School expeditions can expose girls to new cultures, traditions, and ways of life. By immersing themselves in different environments and interacting with locals, girls can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for diversity.
Studies have found that cultural immersion experiences can lead to increased empathy, open-mindedness, and tolerance.
Creates Lifelong Memories And Friendships
Enduring memories, lifelong connections, increased sense of belonging and social connectedness are all built by sharing new experiences and challenges together on an expedition. Girls may create strong bonds with each other that continue long after the trip and even school has finished.
Leadership Skills
Whether it’s pre-departure planning (we love letting the students design their expedition), taking charge of a group project or leading a hike, girls can learn to step up and take responsibility for themselves and others.
Conclusion
We hope that this blog post has given a little insight into the benefits that school expeditions have for girl students. Any moment we can get students away from screens and out and about adventuring through the great outdoors, we must! The benefits of school expeditions are clear to see, girls can develop important skills and qualities that will serve them well throughout their lives. From increased confidence and resilience to cultural awareness and leadership skills, the benefits are numerous and far-reaching. So if you’re a parent, teacher, or student looking for a way to support girls’ growth and development, consider signing up for a school expedition today!
At True Adventure, we’re passionate about creating life-changing experiences for girls through school expeditions. With our 17 years of experience, an office full of adventurers that have checked out our destinations first-hand, we are on hand and ready to help you plan an unforgettable experience that will unleash your students potential and inspire the future.
Contact us now: chat@true-adventure.co.uk
Together, let’s empower girls to become the leaders of tomorrow.
References
https://cyber.harvard.edu/sites/cyber.harvard.edu/files/KBWLessonsfromGirlScouting2012.pdf
