Their journey was arranged through International Student Experiences, a partner organisation that works with schools, colleges and universities under the Turing Scheme to enable educational travel, field-study and vocational learning abroad.

Between a laughter-filled kayaking trip and tie & dye workshop at Galloya Art Village, they gained confidence, perspective and a reason to return. This is how the trip felt—simple moments that became life-changing. They arrived with the usual ideas about travel and found something different, in the best way. They said their time in The Gambia was amazing and, for some, life-changing. Many said they would come back.

What surprised them most was the contrast in classroom resources between the UK and The Gambia, yet learning still flowed through songs, movement and shared attention; they also spoke about the warmth of the people, how quickly strangers became friends, and how often smiling faces greeted them on the street.

In school they supported teachers across different ages—reading with the youngest, guiding simple numbers, keeping a class engaged with clapping games, dancing and singing—and learned that you do not need a lot of materials to run a good session. Ideas, presence and flexibility go a long way.

They grew in other ways too: more confidence, a stronger voice, better classroom rhythm, and a new habit of adapting on the spot, doing what the situation needs rather than sticking strictly to a plan. Several said the visit made them more aware of how much children and adults have back home, and they want to talk about that, to show appreciation and raise awareness among friends, family and future pupils.

The trip had pure joy as well: a kayak run where the group laughed from launch to landing; colour, pattern and pride staining their hands at tie-and-dye; and, above all, unhurried time with the children—reading, playing and sharing the small routines that make a school day work.

They were honest about worries before travelling and a few things they did not enjoy—the normal mix of nerves and newness that comes with a first step abroad—but those feelings faded as they found their place in the classroom and the community.

By the end, everyone agreed they would recommend this trip to others because it was unforgettable, and for some it was the best experience of their lives.

This is travel that gives back—learning with people, not only looking at places—and it stays with you long after the flight home.

As your trusted guide, we invite you to explore this remarkable initiative. It doesn’t just change lives—it change how you see the world.

Reach out today! Volunteer Trails offers study visits and volunteering opportunities across a wide range of fields and sectors!

info@volunteertrails.com +2205393744

Kids Are The World Nursery

Located in Ghana Town, Brufut, Kids Are The World offers free education to children from local villages and disadvantaged families. We nurture young minds through creative learning, focusing on English, arts, music, and sports. Our Gambian teachers, alongside international volunteers,...

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info@volunteertrails.com +220 791 2618

Volunteer Trails

With the heritage of making a change in The Gambia for the past 14 years, Volunteer Trails is the creation of a new vision that will improve the quality of lives of Gambians in a sustainable and self-sufficient way. We...

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Click HERE to explore more meaningful projects and people in The Gambia! 

These aren't just visits. These are exchanges.

You give your time, attention, and maybe a small donation. In return, you’ll receive stories that stay with you, friendships that stretch across continents, and the deep satisfaction of being part of something real.

Whether you're a solo traveler, a family or a group, there’s a way to weave meaningful impact into your itinerary.

You don’t have to be an expert.
Just come as you are—with open eyes and an open heart.