RHS Travels to South Africa

At the end of the summer holidays, a group of seventeen sixth form students travelled to South Africa to the Mankwe wildlife reserve, which contains over 50 different species of wildlife. This was the school’s second visit to the reserve, with our first visit taking place in 2022. 

We were warmly welcomed back to the picturesque Waterbuck camp, situated on the banks of the Motlobo Dam, where students quickly settled into their cabins and tents - extremely excited for the ten days ahead. Throughout the trip we spent our days completing a variety of activities from identifying species; analysing tracks; completing walking and driven transects; collecting data; giraffe or rhino identification and burn management. This was all followed by stunning sunsets, campfires, games, karaoke night and even a braai or two. 

This life changing experience allowed our Ruislip High community to not only reflect on the amazing work completed on the reserve, but also reflect on their own impact on the world we live in and what students can do to help. 

Here are some messages from our sensational students to the outstanding Mankwe team:

‘Thank you so much for a life changing experience where I have definitely had a different view on life and the world around and noticed things I would never have if it wasn’t for the team at Mankwe. I have learned many new things and have inspired me to raise awareness on such a beautiful reserve, and also got me considering coming back in the future and volunteering.’ Anastasia, Year 13

‘I wanted to take some time out of my day to write an appreciation note towards you and your team. My time at the Mankwe Wildlife Reserve was very educational and enjoyable. I really enjoyed working alongside your team and giving us the opportunity to monitor and observe your animals on the reserve. It was an amazing experience for myself and hopefully in the coming years I will be able to return your reserve. Once again thank you for your hospitality and time’ Connor, Year 13

‘Thank you so much for having us for 10 days over the summer and being so incredibly welcoming to us all. It was such an incredible trip and an experience that I will be forever grateful to have. I learned so much from you all and gained many new skills.Our time together was the best way I could’ve spent my summer and I hope to be back again one day soon.Thank you again and hopefully see you all soon.’ Amber, Year 13

Thank you to the Science Department for running such an incredible residential for our sixth form students. Thank you also to Lynne and Melissa and their team, who run the reserve have told us that the staff and students from Ruislip High School are welcome anytime to help with this conservation. We can’t wait to go back!

Check out the school instagram (@ruislip_high_official) to find out even more!