High School Programmes

Our High School Programmes are dedicated volunteer abroad trips for teenagers designed to teach new skills and take you out of your comfort zone. We’ve tailor-made these experiences for groups of 14 to 18-year-olds with an exciting, set itinerary.

What makes High School Programmes perfect for teenage volunteers?

• You’ll build vital skills that will help you in future and on university applications
• You get 24/7 supervision from our staff throughout your trip
• They run exclusively during the school holidays
• They last 2-4 weeks, giving you time to really learn and practice new skills
• They offer a perfect balance of structured activities and independent travel
• You’ll work with a group of young volunteers, forming long-lasting friendships

By volunteering abroad as a teenager, you can expect to:

• Get real, global experience in a subject you’re interested in
• Work alongside and learn from experienced community members
• Make friends with other teens from around the world
• Enjoy a perfect mix of organised work and social activities
• Immerse and explore in a totally new culture and country
• Leave a sustainable, positive impact on local communities

On a personal level, you will:

• Safely step out of your comfort zone, building confidence and independence
• Pick-up practical skills and experience in a real work environment
• Engage with a group of diverse people from around the world
• Develop skills like communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork
• Gain a deeper understanding of global issues and perspectives
• Make incredible memories that will last a lifetime

More than half our High School Programmes are available to participants aged 14 to 18. However, to adhere to local requirements, the remaining projects start from age 15 (with two from 16).

View project eligibility by age >

Some of our most popular High School Programmes include:

• Culture & Adventure in Japan
• Public Health in Cambodia
• Shark Conservation in Fiji
• Football in Ghana
• Medicine in Spain
• Childcare in Peru
• Sea Turtle Conservation in the Maldives

On all our youth volunteering opportunities, you’ll learn by doing. Let us help you find your perfect volunteering opportunity for high school students.

We survey our teen participants regularly to improve the experience for others and to learn more about how their teen travel programme benefited them personally.

Here’s what they had to say:

• 73% were travelling abroad alone for the first time
• 97% feel more independent and capable of managing new situations
• 93% feel more confident in themselves and their abilities
• 91% said they feel now more confident when interacting with people from different cultures and background
• 93% said they now have a better understanding of global issues and challenges
• 81% said they are now more likely to see themselves as global citizens
• 87% said their medical internship helped them confirm or rule out medicine as a career path
• 88% said their medical internship has made them more confident in clinical environments

Read: Beyond the bucket list: the personal growth behind international volunteering

Our trips exist to help you make the most of your time volunteering abroad.

All our teenage volunteers enjoy:

• The security of travelling with a trusted organisation with decades of experience.
• Working with in-country staff who know the local community well.
• Developing confidence, skills, and friendships.
• A unique experience for university and job applications.
• Learning about other cultures and the challenges faced overseas.

Summer is the busiest time of the year for us. Book a place ahead of time to make the most of your summer holiday.

When schools close for the summer, you can pack your bags, hop on a plane, and travel overseas.

Our High School Programmes take place over fixed dates throughout the months of June, July, and August. We also have dates in December and January.

Whichever project you choose, expect to:

• Meet and work with young people your age
• Live with a local host family or in shared accommodation
• Take part in fun, worthwhile activities at your placement
• Join cultural activities with your group and our staff
• Have support from our staff 24/7 during your trip

Join one of our volunteer opportunities for young people and discover what you’re capable of!

Imagine your students stepping outside the classroom and into a world of adventure, cultural immersion, and meaningful service.

Our inspiring school group trips offer exactly that, providing unforgettable experiences designed to broaden horizons, foster personal growth, and ignite a passion for making a difference.

Explore School Trips >