Pupils of The Maelor School in Penley enjoy Africa adventure

Oct 9 2008 by Gill Broad, Whitchurch Herald

AN expedition to Zambia and Botswana was undertaken during the summer by 20 pupils and two link teachers from The Maelor School in Penley.

They spent a month exploring the regions, dividing their time between a community project, a five-day trek, safaris in Botswana and time exploring the town of Livingstone.

The community project was based at Itala Community School in Mkushi, Zambia.

There the pupils had the opportunity to teach classes, help to build a new staff house and interact with the local people through a visit to the village and by attending a church service.

The group’s work was very much appreciated, not just by the school but by the community as a whole.

Pupils trekked for five days in the Luangwa Valley in eastern Zambia. They followed the challenging yet scenic path of the Lunsemfwa River upstream, during which time they were self-sufficient for their food and camping.

This was an opportunity to see the countryside and interact with villagers en route.

The group crossed the border into Botswana to see some of Africa’s famous wildlife.

While at the Chobe National Park the students learnt about the importance of wildlife conservation and saw elephants, hippos, giraffes, crocodiles, lions and a huge array of birds in their natural environment.

To finish the expedition, the visitors were able to spend time relaxing in Livingstone, where they were able to take in the breathtaking Victoria Falls and the sights and sounds of the Zambezi River.