BIS Abu Dhabi International and National Residential Trips 2024-25 LATEST

OUR VISION OUR MISSION

“Empowering & enriching lives for future success”

“Our mission is to create world class learning experiences that recognise and nurture empathetic, resilient and talented individuals.”

Kindness, Honesty and Respect

The DofE trip was an amazing and totally unique experience, learning problem solving and survival skills. It has made me more confident and independent, and it strengthened friendships with my teammates as well.

BIS Abu Dhabi Year 11 student, DofE Silver Qualifying Trip.

At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Our transformative programmes, collaborations and experiences nurture our students talents, unlock their potential and inspire them to go further than they ever thought possible.

We offer our students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of residential school trips – both within the UAE and beyond - where they can explore new cultures, learn new languages, and broaden their horizons. We understand that as a parent, you want your child to have the best possible education and life experiences, a chance to dig deeper within themselves, to find resilience and develop their leadership capability. A residential school trip can provide just that.

When traveling abroad and immersing themselves in a foreign culture, students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them. They gain valuable communication and problem-solving skills, as well as a sense of independence and confidence.

Our trips aim to offer action-packed experiences, that will challenge and inspire students of all ages. From hiking and rock

climbing to rafting and skiing, we provide a wide range of exciting activities that will get students out of their comfort zones and into the great outdoors. Experienced instructors will lead students and teach them essential outdoor skills. Along the way, students will learn about the environment and the importance of conservation, gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Our residential school trips are carefully planned to ensure that students have a safe and enjoyable experience. We work with reputable travel companies and local guides to provide a comprehensive itinerary that balances educational and cultural experiences with fun and relaxation. We believe that a foreign school trip is an investment in your child’s future and we offer a range of destinations across Europe, Asia and Africa. It can inspire them to pursue new interests and passions whilst also developing the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly globalised world. We encourage you to consider this opportunity for your child and look forward to answering any questions you may have.

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Education is about much more than lessons and qualifications, important though they are. We offer our students experiences designed to be fun, challenging, inspiring, and motivating.

BOOKING PROCESS

1. Open the Jotform link in the international and national residential trips email to complete your child’s details for their preferred trip(s). Kindly note that certain expeditions may require a vetting process due to challenging conditions and the requirement of appropriate fitness levels.

2. We wish to inform you that for certain school excursions specialised equipment will be required. If such equipment is not already possessed, it will need to be purchased. Should you have any concerns or questions regarding the purchase of specialised equipment for upcoming school trips, please do not hesitate to contact the trip leader.

3. Upon receipt of your declaration of interest, you will receive a notification confirming your child’s conditional place.

4. On Friday 31st May, invoices will be sent out requesting a deposit for your child’s selected trip(s). Once the deposit has been paid, your child’s place will be secured for the trip. It’s important to note that these deposits serve to secure airline tickets and, in some instances, facilitate early bird discounts with third-party providers.

5. Upon confirmation of your child’s place, the trip leader will contact you with comprehensive trip details and instructions regarding the payment of the remaining balance.

Please be advised that refunds are not permitted once deposits have been paid.

Y7 AL AIN ADVENTURE TRIP

At the base of Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain Adventure is a world-class adventure hotspot. A first of its kind in the Middle East, this venue boasts a large wave pool, white water rapids and many more exciting activities!

• World-class adventure hub

• Chalet accommodation at the neighbouring Green Mubuzzarah Hotel

• 7 students per chalet, 2 bathrooms in each

• Child friendly buffet available, all dietary requirements catered for

• Three artificial white-water rivers

• Large wave pool

• White Water Rafting

• Bodyboarding

• Airpark & Zipline

• Giant Swing & Kayaking

YEAR 7

Y8 KHORFAKKAN ADVENTURE CAMP

Students enjoy a luxurious beachside resort with views over the golden sands of Khorfakkan and an azure blue sea. Look out for turtles bobbing out of the water and the occasional ray while on our Watersport sessions here.

• 4 star coastal resort

• 2/3 students per room

• Child friendly buffet, all dietary requirements catered for

• Exclusive areas of accommodation, catering and recreation

• Kayaking

• Raft Building

• Snorkelling

• Beach Games

• Al Rafisah Dam Hike

YEAR 8

The whole experience was so much fun. It was my first trip away from my family, but I really enjoyed it.

BIS Abu Dhabi Year 9 Student

LES ELFES SKI TRIP, SWITZERLAND

Les Elfes is one of the most prestigious organisers of Winter Sports Holidays in the world offering a lively and enthusiastic approach to skiing and snowboarding in the stunning Swiss Alps. Whether a total beginner or an aspiring off-piste skier, all abilities are catered for.

Alongside a full-day of ski or snowboard lessons, Les Elfes offers a full programme of Apres-ski and evening activities with students able to choose from a range of activities including sledging, a torchlight hike, ice-skating and much more.

YEAR 8 - 9

BERLIN, GERMANY

Join us on a linguistic and cultural trip to Germany’s buzzing metropolis: Berlin. Renowned for its exceptional landmarks, vibrant cultural scene and relaxed lifestyle, Germany’s capital city offers a rich history with an abundance of sights and museums, awesome street art, captivating traditions, and incredible local cuisine.

During this school trip, you will have the opportunity to attend German language workshops in the morning (Beginners to Advanced), which will provide you with efficient preparation for your speaking examinations on the iGCSE/IBDP programmes. The afternoon will offer a chance to explore Berlin’s history with tours of iconic monuments of the city, such as Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag and Alexanderplatz. You will delve into poignant exhibits of the Topography of Terror and marvel at remnants of the Berlin Wall at the world’s

largest outside art exhibit: East Side Gallery. Other excursions to Sachsenhausen, Wannsee Conference House, the Berlin Olympic Park, and the city of Potsdam will allow you to gain invaluable insights into Germany’s past. The evenings will give us a chance to experience the traditional Winter markets at Gendarmenmarkt firsthand, indulge our senses in Berlin’s culinary delights and celebrate festive charm, before we unwind in the comfort of our hotel with memories of a day well spent.

With knowledgeable guides and teachers leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of German language and its history and culture while developing a greater appreciation for the world around us. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure to Berlin, Germany!

YEAR 8 - 13

CUENCA, SPAIN

Join us on a cultural journey to the enchanting city of Cuenca, Spain! Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions to broaden your language skills and your cultural horizons. In this stunning destination, known for its magnificent architecture, breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine, you can prepare efficiently for your speaking exams for IGCSE/IBDP.

During this school trip, you will have the opportunity to attend Spanish lessons, explore Cuenca’s ancient streets, marvel at the Gothic cathedral and the famous hanging houses and discover the secrets of the city. You’ll also have the chance to participate in workshops like flamenco dancing, cooking lessons or kayaking.

With knowledgeable guides and teachers leading the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Spanish culture and language and develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the world around us. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure to Cuenca, Spain!

The Duke of Endinburgh Award

Adventurous Journey is a life-changing experience. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work. A recognised mark of achievement; respected by employers.

DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD, ADVENTUROUS JOURNEYS

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a prestigious programme that aims to equip young people with essential life skills and experiences. One of the most exciting components of the award is the adventurous journey, which involves a multi-day outdoor expedition that tests participants’ resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

For this year’s school trips, students will embark on a thrilling practice and qualifying Duke of Edinburgh’s Award adventurous journey, where they will be challenged both physically and mentally. The bronze and silver expeditions will take place in the stunning mountains or deserts of the UAE, where students will have the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature while putting their outdoor skills to the test.

This year is the first time BIS Abu Dhabi will be offering the Gold DofE Award for students who have completed the Silver Award. Students will be conducting their Practice Journey in the UAE and the Qualifying Adventurous Journey

and Residential Project will take place in the jungles of Sabah, Borneo. The Gold Qualifying Adventurous Journey and Residential Project will enable students to embrace the local culture of Borneo and immerse it into the heart of their final DofE adventure.

Over the course of each expedition, students will have to face a variety of challenges, from steep climbs to desert crossings. They will need to work together to overcome obstacles and reach their destination. Throughout the journey, they will also have to demonstrate their navigation skills and make decisions based on changing weather conditions and terrain.

In addition to the physical challenges, students will also have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and develop important life skills. They will learn the value of teamwork, communication, and resilience in challenging situations. They will also develop their problemsolving abilities as they work together to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

YEAR 9 - 12

Overall, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award adventurous journeys are unforgettable experiences that offer students the opportunity to grow both personally and academically. They provide a unique chance to explore the outdoors, challenge oneself, and develop important life skills that will serve them well in the future.

Please note - These activites are only applicable to students who have enrolled in the DofE International Award programme. Email outdoor.education@bisad.ae for more information.

Y10 SERVICE EXPEDITION, TANZANIA

Working alongside one of our partner charities in Tanzania, our students will engage in highly rewarding programmes of sustainable service work, to improve the health and long-term prospects of children and their families in the region.

This year will see students work with multiple project partners across the same site; our main project will be providing new educational facilities with Seeway Tanzania, whilst additional projects could include engaging with Umoja to provide sports coaching and facilities for the school, or with ECHO in developing sustainable agriculture areas around the school to provide much needed healthy meals for the pupils and teachers.

Students build confidence, independence and leadership skills. They work as part of a team to manage their own time and develop resilience, persistence and resourcefulness. They also develop a real sense of international mindedness.

Before and after the week-long experience, students engage on the Global Campus online platform, where they fundraise and prepare for the trip.

The trip includes a two-day educational safari through the Tarangire National Park, identifying and learning about some of the regions diverse flora and fauna.

The Tanzania expedition is a fantastic opportunity to experience not only the culture and challenges faced in Tanzania, but also to meet fellow Nord Anglia students from around the world and build lifelong friendships.

YEAR 10

Y11 ADVANCED TREKKING, SWITZERLAND

Our Advanced Trekking expedition is an inspiring adventure for students, challenging them physically while developing leadership skills in a wellmanaged and fun environment. Starting from our NAE Expeditions base in Les Plans sur Bex, students will participate in a 4-day, 3-night trek.

Throughout the week, they will learn how to travel safely through challenging terrain towards secluded Alpine huts over mountainous terrain, with amazing views of Lac Lem and the Mont Blanc Massif along the way.

During this expedition, students will have the opportunity to take more of an active role, as they will be encouraged to enhance their skills in team work, navigation, cooking and equipment management.

Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to bond with fellow NAE students while taking part in more physically demanding, but rewarding, treks such as the Tour du Grand Muveran and Traverse of the Dent du Midi.

YEAR 11

Y12 MALAYSIA WORLD CHALLENGE ADVENTURE

The World Challenge Expedition to Malaysia offers a wonderfully diverse range of experiences for our students.

The Cameron Highlands are renowned for their natural beauty and trekking opportunities, providing a chance for the students to connect with nature and explore the region’s flora and fauna.

Participating in a community initiative adds depth to the experience, allowing students to engage with local communities and contribute to sustainable development efforts. This hands-on involvement will be incredibly rewarding, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy towards others.

Finally, spending time in Kuala Lumpur offers a contrast to the tranquility of the highlands, exposing students to the vibrant culture and modernity of Malaysia’s capital city. It’s a great opportunity for them to immerse themselves in urban life, explore the city’s landmarks, and appreciate the dynamism of metropolitan Malaysia.

Overall, this expedition promises to be both enriching and memorable for the students involved.

YEAR 12

Y13 NEPAL WORLD CHALLENGE ADVENTURE

This World Challenge Expedition offers the opportunity for students to engage in a variety of enriching experiences in Nepal.

Contributing to a local initiative aimed at improving access to adequate housing will demonstrate the importance of community engagement and social responsibility. It’ll allow students to witness firsthand the challenges faced by local communities and to actively participate in efforts to address them.

Trekking through Nagarjun National Park offers students the chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of Nepal’s mountainous wilderness.

YEAR 13

Staying in an authentic mountain teahouse provides a unique cultural experience, allowing students to connect with local traditions and hospitality.

Exploring Kathmandu, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, gives students the opportunity to delve into Nepal’s history, art, and spirituality. Visiting iconic landmarks such as Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple can be both educational and spiritually enlightening.

Finishing the expedition with a white water rafting trip on the Trisuli River adds an exciting and adventurous element to the experience. Rafting through the rapids allows students to challenge themselves physically while enjoying the adrenaline rush of navigating the river’s currents.

Overall, this expedition offers a well-rounded combination of community engagement, cultural immersion, and adventure, providing students with a truly unforgettable experience in Nepal.

COST AND DATES