A family from Huilloc, the recipients of a new healthier cook stove | LT
Blog home / Student Experiential Learning and Sustainable Development Goals
Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call to action to address the world's greatest challenges, eradicating poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all. At World Expeditions Schools, we bring these global goals to life through immersive travel experiences that empower students to engage directly with communities, protect natural environments, and contribute to meaningful, sustainable change. Each journey is designed to deliver real-world learning, deep cultural understanding, and hands-on involvement in projects that align with the SDGs, ensuring that students return home not just with memories, but with the knowledge that their actions have made a genuine difference.
From conserving marine life in Fiji to supporting educational projects in rural Laos, each experience is crafted to build awareness, inspire action, and create a sense of global responsibility. This alignment showcases the depth of our commitment to sustainable development and highlights how your students can become active participants in creating a better world.
Contact us today to plan your next overseas school program, or to find out more about how we work towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
SDG 1 – No Poverty Eliminate poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Ending poverty in all its forms everywhere is essential to sustainable development. This goal includes providing access to economic opportunities, sustainable livelihoods, and resilient communities where basic needs are met. In rural Nepal, students work alongside women farmers to improve sustainable agriculture practices, empowering local communities with economic stability and food security. In Tanzania, hands-on projects focus on community-led initiatives that provide education, infrastructure improvements, and economic opportunities, breaking cycles of poverty and creating pathways to prosperity. Meanwhile, in Cambodia, students support local NGOs that build sustainable infrastructure, enhance living conditions, and drive community-based economic development.
Timor Cultural Connections Journey Cambodia Service Program
SDG 2 – Zero Hunger End hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
Our programs are designed to support targets such as ending hunger, improving nutrition, promoting sustainable agriculture, and strengthening food systems through hands-on initiatives that build community resilience and ensure access to healthy, locally grown food. For example, through sustainable farming projects in Timor-Leste, students learn how resilient agricultural practices improve food security and reduce malnutrition. In Cambodia, community-led organic farming initiatives teach students how local communities overcome food scarcity through sustainable methods. In Australia’s Margaret River region, students explore sustainable food production and organic farming that support local communities and enhance food resilience. Across the globe many of our programs demonstrate that achieving food security and improved nutrition through sustainable agriculture ensures that communities can thrive with access to healthy, sustainable food sources.
Cambodia Service Program Nepal - T-HELP Nepal Regenerative Travel Program
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages is critical to sustainable development. Our school journeys highlight that access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare are fundamental for strong, resilient communities. One example is in the Andean highlands of Peru. Students install healthy cook stoves that reduce indoor air pollution and improve community health. In Cambodia, they help install water filtration systems, providing clean water that prevents waterborne diseases. In far north Queensland students learn how to build aquaponics systems and create care packages for local communities in need. Students can even immerse themselves in the kitchen to cook alongside local charities, supporting those in need.
SDG 4 – Quality Education Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Access to quality education provides pathways to equality and opportunity, empowering communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures. Our school programs are designed to support targets such as inclusive and equitable learning, infrastructure development, gender equity in education, and access to lifelong learning through grassroots partnerships that improve schools and empower communities. For example, in Nepal, students help build classrooms and provide educational materials to rural schools, improving access to learning for under-served communities. In Morocco, they work with Berber communities to enhance classroom facilities and support educational programs for girls, and in Timor-Leste, students participate in initiatives that provide scholarships for girls and improve local schools, ensuring that education is accessible to all.
Laos Service Learning Adventure Morocco Sea, Service & Summit School Adventure
SDG 5 – Gender Equality Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls is key to sustainable community development. Many of our school journeys are designed to support targets such as eliminating gender disparities, empowering women economically, enhancing access to education and leadership, and creating inclusive opportunities through skill-building and community engagement. This includes fair access to education, vocational training, and economic opportunities. Students experience this first hand by supporting women-led agricultural cooperatives in Nepal and Tanzania, promoting financial independence and economic empowerment. In Sri Lanka, they engage with women’s microfinance projects that support education and vocational training, and in Peru students can install cook stoves, improving the health of women directly.
SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Many of our service leaning programs are designed to support targets such as ensuring access to safe drinking water, building effective sanitation systems, and promoting hygiene practices through locally led initiatives that address environmental and health challenges. Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all is fundamental to public health and community development. For example, in Cambodia, students work with local communities to install water filtration systems and improve sanitation facilities, reducing disease and improving community health. In Malaysia, students engage in conservation projects that protect freshwater ecosystems and support sustainable water management. Sustainable water management and infrastructure are vital for safe and resilient communities.
SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
Many of our school journeys are designed to support targets such as increasing access to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and encouraging clean technology use in remote and off-grid communities through education and hands-on implementation. Students explore clean energy solutions in Nepal with bio-gas projects. In Western Australia’s Albany region, they witness large-scale wind energy projects that supply clean power to surrounding towns. In Malaysia, small-scale solar installations provide communities with sustainable, off-grid energy solutions. Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy is crucial for development and environmental sustainability. Clean energy initiatives reduce carbon footprints and drive sustainable growth.
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
Programs are designed to support targets such as job creation, skill development, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic opportunities through ethical tourism, local enterprise, and vocational initiatives in partnership with communities. Promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth through community-led initiatives empowers local economies, creates jobs, and drives economic resilience. In Timor-Leste, students support community-led economic initiatives that create sustainable jobs and improve livelihoods. In Kenya, projects focus on community-driven tourism and sustainable agriculture that provide income opportunities for local families. In Vietnam, students participate in microfinance and vocational training programs that enable communities to build sustainable economic independence.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.
Supporting targets such as strengthening local infrastructure, promoting innovation, and supporting sustainable industry through community construction projects, eco-solutions, and hands-on learning, students can contribute to community-based infrastructure projects. In Malaysia, conservation projects focus on sustainable land and water management to support local communities, and in Cambodia students complete a 3 day community project at the Treak Community Centre. Our school journeys highlight that building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive industrialisation, and fostering innovation are essential for sustainable development and community resilience.
Cambodia Regenerative Travel Experience Borneo Conservation and Culture Service Program
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities Reduce inequality within and among countries.
Programs are designed to support targets such as addressing discrimination, promoting inclusive access to services, and reducing disparities in education, income, and opportunity through partnerships with marginalised communities. Reducing inequalities within and among countries is vital for creating inclusive societies. This involves equitable access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all. Through community projects in Laos, students support educational initiatives that bridge gaps in learning for rural students. In Morocco, they work alongside Berber communities to improve access to education and community infrastructure. In Nepal, hands-on projects focus on empowering women farmers and providing sustainable income opportunities to reduce inequalities.
Laos Service Learning Adventure Morocco School Adventure
SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Programs that are designed around this SDG engage students to support targets such as building resilient infrastructure, improving inclusive urban spaces, preserving cultural heritage, and advancing sustainable housing and transport through local planning projects. Students can engage in urban sustainability projects in Vietnam and Cambodia, working on community-driven initiatives that improve housing and local infrastructure. In Australia, they participate in Indigenous-led land management projects that promote sustainable living. In Sri Lanka, students support community-led development initiatives that enhance sustainable urban planning. Making cities and communities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable enhances the quality of life for urban and rural populations, supporting sustainable growth.
Indigenous Immersion & Ningaloo Reef Exploration Timor Cultural Connections Journey Cambodia Service Program
SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Our school journeys are designed to support targets such as reducing waste, improving resource efficiency, encouraging sustainable lifestyles, and promoting circular economy practices through education and community-based action. For example, in Malaysia, students work with local communities on sustainable agriculture projects that promote zero-waste practices and responsible consumption. In Fiji, they engage in marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices that protect local ecosystems. In Peru, students install clean cook stoves that reduce air pollution and promote responsible energy consumption. Promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns protects natural resources, reduces waste, and drives environmentally friendly living.
SDG 13 – Climate Action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
SDG 14 – Life Below Water Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.
Programs are designed to support targets such as protecting marine biodiversity, reducing ocean pollution, and supporting sustainable fisheries through local partnerships that focus on reef restoration and ocean conservation. Conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources protects biodiversity and supports livelihoods in coastal communities. In Thailand, students work on coral reef restoration projects, learning how marine conservation efforts protect underwater ecosystems. In Fiji, they engage in snorkelling and marine health monitoring to understand the importance of protecting coral reefs. In Australia’s Ningaloo Reef, students participate in conservation efforts that support marine biodiversity.
SDG 15 – Life on Land Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt biodiversity loss.
Programs are designed to support targets such as restoring ecosystems, halting biodiversity loss, improving land use practices, and protecting natural habitats through reforestation, conservation, and community education. Protecting, restoring, and promoting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems preserves biodiversity and supports community resilience. In Borneo, students engage in rainforest conservation projects that protect endangered species and restore natural habitats. In Kenya, they participate in community-led reforestation projects that combat soil erosion and promote sustainable land management. In Sri Lanka, students support sustainable farming initiatives that enhance food security and protect biodiversity as well as work in wildlife conservation.
Sri Lanka Culture & Community Project Borneo Conservation and Culture Service Program
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions.
Programs are designed to support targets such as inclusive governance, access to justice, cultural preservation, and social equity through projects that foster peaceful communities and civic engagement. Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, ensuring access to justice, and building strong, accountable institutions are fundamental for sustainable development. Students work alongside community leaders in New Zealand to support conservation projects that promote sustainable land use and peaceful community development. In Peru, they participate in community-driven initiatives that enhance living standards and promote social justice. In Tanzania, students engage in service projects that strengthen local governance and community resilience.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.
Our school programs are designed to support targets such as strengthening partnerships, fostering global collaboration, building local capacity, and improving knowledge exchange through relationships with NGOs, schools, and communities. Strengthening global partnerships is crucial to achieving sustainable development. Collaborative efforts drive community projects, improve infrastructure, and support global cooperation. Through hands-on involvement, students engage in projects that foster partnerships with local NGOs, community leaders, and international organisations. In Nepal, community-led projects focus on sustainable farming and education through global partnerships. In Cambodia, students support clean water initiatives in collaboration with local organisations, demonstrating the power of partnerships in achieving sustainable development.
World Expeditions Schools is dedicated to empowering students to become change-makers through immersive learning experiences that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Each journey is more than just a travel experience; it's a chance to make a real difference. By engaging with communities, protecting natural environments, and promoting sustainable practices, students not only learn about the world but also leave a positive impact that endures long after their visit.
We believe that meaningful travel experiences inspire lifelong learning and a commitment to global stewardship. Together, we can guide students on a path of understanding, empathy, and action, preparing them to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Contact us
"The student’s experience was invaluable, with the comradery built within the group evident throughout our trips. The emotional growth and ability to embrace challenges set for them was really powerful for all the students, and the life lessons they have taken from the experience will stay with them forever."
Megan , Coordinator – Outdoor Education Centre
"The trip was well organised, all the travel was seamless, easy and well considered and the experiences were positive. Some of the learning was important and will stay with many of the students for a long time."
Dailan , Curriculum Leader
"Our students, supported by the ‘World Ex’ crew, developed resilience and teamwork, and gained meaningful insight to Nepalese culture. World Expeditions Schools delivered an educational and culturally-immersive experience that facilitated learning, personal growth, and strong team bonding."
Carly , Assistant Head of Secondary (Academics)