Scotland Camp: A Week to Remember

Our recent school trip to Edinburgh and the Cairngorms was an unforgettable adventure packed with history, teamwork, and plenty of outdoor fun - a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. As Deputy Principal of Crimson Global Academy and one of the trip organisers, I had the privilege of leading this first-ever in-person experience for our global online students. This blog is a personal account of a week that brought our international community together in the most meaningful way.

Day 1: Exploring Edinburgh

We were greeted by sunshine on our arrival in Edinburgh, setting a bright tone for the days ahead. Students enjoyed strolling through the city’s historic streets and relaxing in its lush green parks. A visit to the National Museum of Scotland offered interactive learning and plenty of laughter, before we returned to our accommodation for games and a good night’s rest. The next morning, our Highland adventure would begin.

Day 2: Into the Cairngorms

After an early breakfast, we journeyed north to the Cairngorms, taking in some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery along the way. Upon arrival, students jumped straight into team-building challenges, followed by a friendly game of frisbee and football golf. Spirits were high from the start, and it was fantastic to see everyone getting stuck in, working together, and embracing the experience.

Day 3: Archery and High Ropes

The day began with a walk to the activity centre and an archery session - with a few bullseyes scored! After lunch, it was time to tackle the high ropes course. This was a day of courage and support, as students pushed beyond their comfort zones, faced fears, and cheered each other on to climb higher!

Although our evening Highland Games were postponed due to wildfire smoke in the hills to the north (we were at a safe distance), the students made the most of a relaxed evening with games and cards at the bunkhouse.

Staff Reflection – M. Caley

“It was an amazing trip. The best part was seeing students from all over the world, with all kinds of personalities and backgrounds, getting on so well. They helped each other out, worked together, and had loads of fun along the way. Watching them laugh, step out of their comfort zones, and make real friendships was just brilliant. These are the memories that will stick with them for a long time.”

Day 4: Bushcraft and Raft Building

The smoke cleared overnight, and we awoke to another day of sunshine. First on the agenda was bushcraft, where students learned essential survival skills, including making bracelets from stinging nettle fibres, identifying nutritional plants, and brewing pine tea.

Later, it was down to the lake for raft building. Working in teams, students designed, built, and tested their creations, which impressively stayed afloat! There was time for games on the water and, of course, plenty of splashing and jumping in. We ended the day with a classic chippy tea and more games back at the bunkhouse.

Day 5: Gorge Walking, Laser Tag, and Highland Games

Our final full day in the Highlands was action-packed. The morning began with gorge walking at the Bridge of Brown — wading, climbing, and jumping up through the cold waters before sliding back down! Students looked after and encouraged one another throughout, showing just how far they had come as a group.

The afternoon brought competitive outdoor laser tag, and finally, our much-anticipated Highland Games, complete with welly wanging and a show-stopping caber toss by Mr Knight! Despite the classic Scottish rain, spirits were sky-high as we celebrated our last night in the countryside.

Day 6: Back to Edinburgh

We returned to Edinburgh for our final day and night together. After settling in, we visited the Scottish Parliament for a fascinating guided tour, taking in the debating chamber and learning about the building’s unique design. A stroll up the Royal Mile gave students a chance to pick up souvenirs and enjoy the city one last time.

The trip concluded with a spooky evening in the Edinburgh Vaults, a deep dive into the city’s darker history and most haunted corners, followed by our final meal together and time to reflect on an incredible week.

A Magical Week

What a magical week it was. A journey that brought together students from all over the world. Through laughter, challenge, adventure, and support, they formed friendships, built confidence, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

A Global School, A Local Experience

At Crimson Global Academy, we’re often asked how students at an online private school make friends or form a sense of community. This camp answered that question loud and clear. The laughter during late-night games, the support on the high ropes, the teamwork in raft building - these weren’t just fun moments. They were genuine bonds formed between students from all over the world, united by curiosity, kindness, and ambition.

This trip brought CGA’s values to life: global collaboration, student wellbeing, and transformative learning experiences that go far beyond the screen. Our students didn’t just experience the outdoors; they experienced what it means to be part of an international school community that celebrates individuality while building lasting friendships.

Whether it’s through virtual classrooms, student-led clubs, or in-person opportunities like our UK school camp, CGA continues to prove that connection and community thrive in an online environment. As educators, seeing students leave camp not only more confident but also more connected was the most rewarding part of all.

Crimson Global Academy isn’t just a school you attend online; it’s a school where you belong.