World Challenge - Montenegro 2026
Our Year 11 students went to Montenegro in two separate teams in the summer holidays this year for their world challenge. They both followed the same itinerary, here is a recap from Millie and Conrad, students from each team about their trip.
After being introduced to the World Challenge programme in Year 9, two groups of students spent the following two years fundraising through a variety of activities, including bake sales, bag packing, sponsored events, car boot sales, weekend work and online fundraising. Their hard work and dedication paid off this summer, when they finally embarked on an unforgettable 11-day expedition to Montenegro for their World Challenge.
The trip provided students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience adventure, develop independence and build lifelong friendships. Throughout the expedition, students explored some of Montenegro's most breathtaking landscapes, hiking mountain trails with spectacular views, visiting picturesque lakes and even climbing one of the country's highest peaks. They also took part in white water rafting along one of Europe's longest rivers, navigating exciting rapids and enduring a memorable thunderstorm along the way.
As well as the physical challenges, students immersed themselves in Montenegrin culture by visiting the historic towns of Kotor and Budva, taking a boat trip across Lake Skadar, sampling local cuisine and learning about the country's traditions and way of life.
Life on expedition encouraged students to develop resilience, teamwork and leadership skills. They learned how to pitch tents, cook meals for large groups on camping stoves, manage their own equipment and support one another through every challenge. Many students arrived barely knowing their fellow travellers but left having formed strong friendships, not only within their teams but also with young people from other countries they met along the way.
Several students chose to challenge themselves personally, including spending the entire trip without using their phones, finding that disconnecting from technology allowed them to fully appreciate the experience and engage with those around them.
Reflecting on the expedition, students described it as an experience filled with adventure, laughter and personal growth. The independence, confidence and memories gained during their time in Montenegro will stay with them for years to come, and many said they would do it all again in a heartbeat. For anyone considering World Challenge in the future, they wholeheartedly recommend taking the opportunity and embracing the adventure.
A huge thank you to Millie and Conrad for sharing their experiences and feedback from the trips, and to Mr Whitehurst, Mrs Sheasby, Miss Thomas and Mr Garner for accompanying and supporting the students throughout their Montenegro adventure.
More photos and snippets from the trips can be seen on our Ed Visits BlueSky account.
