Arctic Adventure: Our Trip to Finland’s Frozen Wilderness
At the end of the Spring Term, our Senior School students embarked on a trip to Finland’s Arctic wilderness, where they immersed themselves in the beauty and challenges of the frozen north. They had the incredible opportunity to journey to Tankavaara and stay in Gold Village, where they experienced a thrilling Arctic expedition that left them with memories to last a lifetime. Here’s their story.
Our adventure began with an exhilarating husky sledding experience. We learned to mush our own team of energetic huskies through the snowy forests, experiencing the thrill of gliding across the icy landscapes with the wind in our faces. It was a unique and unforgettable way to explore the Arctic wilderness.
During our stay in Gold Village, we slept in our snow-shelters which we built ourselves. Despite temperatures reaching -15 degrees Celsius, we bundled up and braved the elements: it was a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience that taught us resilience and self-sufficiency.
We also had the chance to embark on long hikes in snow shoes and cross-country skis, allowing us to explore the breathtaking winter landscapes of Finland. We marvelled at the pristine beauty of the snowy wilderness and learned to navigate the challenging terrain with snowshoes and skis, developing our physical endurance and outdoor skills.
As part of our personal development, we were assigned our own tasks to contribute to the expedition. From gathering firewood to cooking meals, we learned the importance of teamwork, responsibility, and adaptability in a challenging environment. These tasks helped us develop valuable life skills and fostered a sense of independence and self-reliance.
Throughout our Arctic expedition, we also gained a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of the Arctic ecosystem and the impact of climate change on the region. We engaged in discussions with local experts and participated in workshops to learn about environmental conservation and sustainability in the Arctic.
Our arctic expedition school trip to Finland was a life-changing adventure that combined outdoor exploration, personal development, and environmental education. It was an unforgettable journey that left us with a deep appreciation for the natural world and lasting memories of our Arctic adventure.
