Future Adventurer

'When I arrived at Gran Canaria I was a bit nervous about what to expect but I soon felt comfortable after the Spanish students made us feel welcome, they are just like us. I also realised that the Spanish are very religious, which I didn’t know before. I also have managed to learn a few Spanish words.I have grown as a person, social skills are better, and I would not feel nervous abroad again.'

‘I have learnt how to live with people who are not my family and learn boundaries, such as privacy and sharing chores. I have experienced what it is like in schools in different countries and the environments they learn in, and expectations they have. I have experienced how to manage language barriers when speaking to Spanish people in shops and teachers at school.’

“ I have tried lots of new things. I enjoyed going Go Karting. I paddled a kayak independently. I normally worry about getting my hands dirty, but when I did the pottery, I wasn’t worried’. I went on a pedalo for the first time. Despite my dysphagia needs, I have been able to try lots of different foods. I especially enjoyed watermelon and fish curry. I practiced speaking Spanish in shops. This was my first trip without my family.

'Everything has been so good. The students have loved every moment and been pushed to do more and experience things that they haven’t had the chance to do before!'

'I have gained a growing sense of personal responsibility on this trip. Being away from home has allowed me to learn to be responsible with my money and become more aware of how different cultures live.Being here has given me a sense of confidence in my own ability to be independent. I have felt a massive improvement in my ability to regulate myself and my emotions.'

‘Just wanted to say a huge thanks to you and all the team for giving my daughter with such an incredible experience in Gran Canarias. She got back so buzzing about all the adventures she'd been on. I think she loved the boat trip most of all, but she was also enthusing us about the coffee farm, banana plantation and the meal in the lighthouse restaurant. And the more we chat, the more she reveals. I'm sure it's had a huge effect on her, and given her a big boost in confidence. So thanks again for all your organising skills and for looking after her so well out there.’

‘Thank you for the opportunity of going and having gone with an open mind, I had an inspirational time. Seeing the students grow in confidence and push themselves beyond their comfort zone. By getting to know the students and staff I have now made some true friends. The trip has made me more positive and realise how lucky I am. Seeing the joy and fun the students had made it all worthwhile. There were so many highlights I cannot list them all.’

This has been life changing for me and my family in ways I never imagined and has shown me never to plod along in life and to push for your goals and dreams.’