Journeys and adventures are a key part of BISR life and students from all campuses benefit from an array of opportunities to travel and learn.

Journeys

Broadening Horizons and Making Memories
Understanding Global Society
Boosting Personal Growth and Independence
Connecting Learning to Real-world Experiences
Experiencing Life and Lessons Beyond the Classroom Walls

Journeys is a big part of our Enrichment programme and we are proud to offer our students so many opportunities to leave the classroom behind and head off on epic learning adventures. Our dedicated Outdoor Learning Team curates a full schedule of amazing journeys, not only here in Saudi Arabia, but to destinations across the globe.

We endeavour to challenge our students adventurous spirits and powers of resilience, whilst supporting their educational progress and overall well-being. The Outdoor Learning Team focuses on providing a range of sustainable and cost effective options so there truly is something for everyone. Here’s a selection of the journeys available to BISR students this year, and a brief overview of just a few of the activities on offer during each trip:

Within the Kingdom
Nofa Wildlife Park - a safari adventure in the heart of the desert, offering close encounters with a wide variety of species including giraffes, zebras, pygmy hippos and ostriches. The Farm - shelter-building, tooling, whittling, and cooking skills, building fires to roast marshmallows, night walks, stargazing, and a lively talent show featuring singing, gymnastics, and dancing performances. Al Ula - taking part in a trail run, a visit to Elephant Rock, and a wonderful stargazing experience. Strawberry Farm - students learn about conservation and enjoy farm-to-table delights, such as ice cream, juice, pastries, jams and more. Diriyah - exploring Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and ambitious vision for the future, Diriyah offers a plethora of experiences from history and culture to dining. Naila and Hewar Art Galleries - students enjoy thought-provoking exhibitions of a diverse range of contemporary art by both Saudi and international artists.
Worldwide
Al Mazra’a, UAE - Orienteering, climbing, Jacob's ladder, animal encounters, survival techniques, white water rafting, team games and bodyboarding. Verbier, Switzerland - Skiing lessons during the day and fun evening activities, including torchlight walks, marshmallow roasting around the fire pit, talent shows, discos and more. Japan - a visit to the stock exchange, engaging classes on entrepreneurship, a sushi-making workshop, an exciting bullet train ride from Osaka to Tokyo and a fun-filled day at Universal Studios. Nepal - this trip is a long-running BISR tradition devoted to Service Learning, where students spend time with children in Nepalese children’s homes and embark on breathtaking hikes into the mountains.

All journeys are planned for optimum cultural exposure and real-word application of skills, with the added bonus of memories and friendships our students will cherish for years to come.

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (the Award) is a Non-Formal Education and Learning framework supporting young people to find their purpose, place and passion in the world. In more than 120 countries, our globally recognised accreditation is available to all 14 to 24-year-olds, inclusive of all backgrounds, locations, cultures and abilities. Through the programme, each young person becomes part of something special while developing their individual interests, universal skills and life ambitions.

Founded in 1956, the Award highlights the value of Non-Formal Education and Learning. Today there are consistently over a million young people taking on the Award’s challenge to believe in the power of their potential, make a difference in their community and take control of their future. The result? Entire generations of innovators and changemakers who are truly world-ready.

Our International Award Program is undertaken entirely within KSA, with bespoke Adventurous Journey routes administered by British International School Riyadh staff.

When undertaking the Adventurous Journey element of the award, our practice journey groups are always accompanied by staff who have up-to-date International Award training and are familiar with each journey's terrain. We have a fleet of wadi-ready 4x4 Ford Ranger vehicles for all logistical needs and eventualities and all our expeditions are accompanied by staff members who are qualified in wilderness first aid.

Map Mobile Tracking
In addition to our high staff-to-student ratios, we also now use the latest Map Mobile Tracking system for our Silver and Gold Qualifying Groups. Key features of our satellite tracking system include: Mapping down to 10k Satellite imagery compatible. GPS Locate feature. GPS Tracking Feature GPX Import/Export functions Tracking data displayed on assessor hardware devices. Back-up data pulled via text SOS feature Two-way messaging facility between staff and AJ Groups Tracking technology in tandem with our Outdoor Learning Drone technology ensures eyes on all our student Adventurous Journey Groups at all times.

Map Mobile Tracking

In addition to our high staff-to-student ratios, we also now use the latest Map Mobile Tracking system for our Silver and Gold Qualifying Groups.

Key features of our satellite tracking system include:

Mapping down to 10k
Satellite imagery compatible.
GPS Locate feature.
GPS Tracking Feature
GPX Import/Export functions
Tracking data displayed on assessor hardware devices.
Back-up data pulled via text
SOS feature
Two-way messaging facility between staff and AJ Groups

Tracking technology in tandem with our Outdoor Learning Drone technology ensures eyes on all our student Adventurous Journey Groups at all times.

BISR students stand in front of their tent during a trip to the farm.

BISR students stand on a cliffside during their D of E expedition.

BSR salutes the camera while wearing a red jacket during a school trip to Plas Menai.

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Showcasing the academic achievements of our GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, International Baccalaureate and BTEC students at Al Hamra, Al Waha and DQ campuses.

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Journeys

Students learn best when they can see, hear, and experience things first-hand. At BISR, offering adventures which open students’ eyes to bigger concepts is a crucial part of our educational strategy.

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