The British youth expedition: cultural and historical perspectives

The UK has a long tradition of expeditions, a strong cultural idea that has become a common element of non-formal education. According to the Young Explorers Trust (Young Explorers Trust, 2009), over 600 youth expeditions leave the UK each year. At home, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award groups, Scouts and Guides, among many other youth organisations, account for innumerable journeys. The expedition idea also contributes towards the UK version of the gap year. The numbers involved increase considerably if recreational trips and their associated informal educational benefits are added to the list. Expeditions have sea-faring as well as land-based traditions. The Sail Training Association and Ocean Youth Trusts, along with a fleet of other “tall ships” built specifically for youth, take thousands to sea each year. The iconic re-creation of the historical voyages of Drake from 1978–1980 and Raleigh from 1984-1988 have also left a legacy of expeditions, now largely on land, both at home and abroad. The word “expedition” is important. “Expedition” conjures up something specific that is somehow different from “journey”, “trip” “travelling”, “touring”, “backpacking” or “voyage”. It also feels different from related words used in other cultures, such as “wanderlust”, “tramping”, “trail walking”, “walkabout” or “safari”. For some, “expedition” implies a wilderness setting. For others, it means contrasting cultures and landscapes.