Volunteering Abroad Programmes for Teens

Structured, social, and supervised trips for teens aged 14 to 18

Join other teens from around the world on a fully supported international trip that will:

develop your skills
contribute to positive global initiatives
forge new friendships
make unforgettable memories
immerse you in a new culture

Choose from conservation, medicine, childcare, and more as you take your learning outside the classroom.

Enhance your global perspective, support your university and job applications, and stay safe with 24/7 support in-destination!

Learn more about High School Specials >

140,000+ participants since 1992

How do High School Special programmes work?

At their core, our High School Specials give you the chance to travel overseas with other teens to support communities in need.

You’ll be fully supported by our staff on the ground from the moment you arrive until you return home.

Think of it as Adventure with Purpose, immersing yourself in a different culture while contributing towards global initiatives.

Our High School Special programmes run for two weeks and take place on fixed dates during the school holidays.

Your programme includes everything you need:

all accommodation, food, activities, and in-destination transport
a completely stress-free and organised experience
24/7 in-country supervision from arrival to departure
a genuine opportunity to create a lasting impact
an amazing experience that will give your UCAS or job applications an edge

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Something caught your eye?

If you’re interested in joining a volunteer project for teens, get in touch with our Project Experts, and we can guide you through the process.

What will I get out of volunteering abroad?

High School Specials are not just a holiday. They are designed specifically for teen participants to grow their skills and see the world with the full support of our staff.

You’ll build practical skills and knowledge in the field you choose, which can be vital in deciding whether a career is right for you and giving you an edge in your university applications.

Additionally, independent travel is the perfect opportunity to enhance your global mindset, adaptability, and confidence - all transferable skills that will stay with you for life.

In fact, we regularly survey all our participants and here are some of the highlights:

99% said that they were able to connect with new people and cultures
93% said the new skills/knowledge they gained will help them in the future
94% believe they now have a better understanding of global issues and challenges
92% said travelling with Projects Abroad was better than travelling alone as a typical tourist
96% of medical participants felt their internships enhanced their experience of studying medicine and healthcare

How do we keep you safe?

We believe that no other provider offers the same level of safety and security to their participants that we do.

Since 1992, we've taken care of every aspect of safety while more than 140,000 participants travel abroad with us.

Some of the ways we keep you safe are:

24/7 in-country support
fully-vetted, highly-trained staff and hand-picked accommodation
expert supervision - with a staff-to-teen ratio of 1 to 8
comprehensive pre-departure training on your own personal webpage

We follow up-to-the-minute guidance from the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) (as well as officials in other countries) regarding safety.

We also devise comprehensive risk management strategies and train our local staff on crisis management plans so they know what to do in any situation.

We're here for you every step of the way. From the moment you start planning your trip to the day you head home, we'll be here to support you.

What are the requirements?

Our programmes are designed for teens aged 14 to 18 who would like to gain experience, therefore no prior experience is required to join.

We’ll ensure you’re prepared, supported, and ready to go.

There are also no language requirements for our High School Special programmes, as our staff speak English in all the countries we work in. You won't need to know the native language; but you will pick up some phrases while you’re there!

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Will teens be there alone?

No! - They'll work with other teens from all around the world. Each two-week programme usually has between 15 and 35 participants.

Since 1992, we've helped 140,000+ participants travel abroad and make a difference, and every year, we welcome hundreds of teen volunteers.

These High School Specials only run during summer holidays and follow structured itineraries, so many other teens find it perfect for using their holiday productively.

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Do programmes cater for dietary requirements?

We know that eating well is important, especially when your trip is packed with activities.

That's why we prioritise your dietary needs. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have any other specific requirements, we'll do our best to accommodate you.

When you apply, please let us know about your dietary preferences. Your host family will then provide a range of delicious and nutritious meals that are tailored to your taste.

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What are the most popular programmes for UK teens?

Healthcare

Conservation

Childcare & Community

Hear from participants

“Absolutely life changing.

The only complaint I have is that it wasn't longer.

Volunteering in Cambodia and meeting like-minded individuals is a priceless experience I absolutely encourage you to attend a project or even better send your kids here.”

Nathaniel, Community Work in Cambodia

“The whole two weeks was a beautiful, fun, rewarding experience. I often find myself wishing to be back.”

Alice W, Childcare and Community Work in Ghana

“I really did feel like my volunteering in Kenya had a small impact on something greater, but I would be so happy if the impact I made was even a tiny fraction as big as the impact Kenya had on me.”

Esme Medical Internship in Kenya