STUDENTS undertook the trip of a lifetime when they took on an expedition to Nepal.

Wey Valley students spent two years preparing for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. They did practice expeditions and treks to prepare for the seven-day expedition through the Himalayas, followed by a stay in a village where they helped with a number of projects including digging out a field for the foundations of a 30,000-litre water tank.

Students climbed to altitudes of 3,500 meters as part of the gruelling seven-day trek and described the conditions as challenging at times.

The team leader was Karen Edgeley, who was helped by Jenny Boyce and Richard Edgeley.

Mr Edgeley said: “The nice thing about this – it’s not just a school trip. It’s an expedition. These groups have been working for two years – training and fundraising and developing leadership skills.”

Students went from the UK, via Dubai and Delhi to Kathmandu, before heading off to the village of Okhle, where the Bayapani Secondary School is situated.

They described Kathmandu as being pretty polluted and filled with the noise of traffic but the village was very calm in contrast.

To raise money for the expedition students undertook sponsored events like a harbour swim, bag packing at Morrison’s and organising raffles.

Mrs Edgeley said they took out items for the village and school including old school shirts, footballs, volleyballs, bandages, spectacles and toys.

Students said the experience had been amazing and would be something they would remember for the rest of their lives. Rory Eastlake said the villagers treated them like family.

Cara Jones said her best memory was how friendly the people were.

Elinor Mason said the villagers were really friendly and would come up to their camp outside the village every morning before school and in the evening.

Lucas Jones said the experience had made him appreciate things a bit more. He said: “We take too much for granted.”

Charlie Cox said it proved they didn’t need technology that much and that everyone had survived without their mobiles. He said: “It proves you don’t need that stuff with you.”

Kieran Findlay, Charlotte Keeling and Natalie Sykes said the best part of the trip was the experience of being at the village and how friendly everyone was.

Annie Fall said her favourite bit was when they all trekked up a hill to watch the sunrise.

She said: “The views were magnificent there.”

Jordan Wright said his best bit was meeting their Sherpa guides.

Bella Cash and Rachel Baylis also took part in the expedition.

The school helped to raised £500 which was donated to the Okhle Village Trust for the water tank.

The staff and students would like to thank everyone who helped them arrange the trip.