So DS (yr 9) has been given the opportunity to go on an amazing school trip along the lines of volunteering at a school for disadvantaged kids in Kenya. I think it is an incredible opportunity to see a country so different from the UK, and to learn about and help others, and make new friends across then globe. I'm sure DS will get a lot from the experience which will massively open his eyes.
But I have a few conflicting feelings:
- This trip is v expensive (£1800). DH and I can't really afford it but it seems such a great opportunity we will make it happen and find the money. However, we r obviously lucky to be in a position to b able to do that. I feel really bad for the kids whose parents can not afford this trip. I just don't know if I agree with state secondary schools offering these v expensive trips. It seems v much like the rich will benefit and the poorer kids will be left out. I feel so uncomfortable with it. I wish I could afford to fund another kid so that those that can't afford it dont miss out, but sending DS will already be a big financial stretch and I can't afford to fund another child as well. Are such expensive trips the norm at all state schools? What do u think about it?
- I feel really weird about a bunch of 13/14yr old privileged uk kids going to 'volunteer' at this school in Kenya. I mean, how much actually useful stuff can a bunch of 13yr olds do to help on a one week holiday? How must the kids in this school feel having a new.bunch of western kids come and look at them and 'volunteer' every week. I mean, if the kids actually will genuinely be doing good and helping this school, then good. I just question how much good they can actually do and the ethics of it all.
Anyway, those r my conflicts.
AIBU to be feeling both happy and grateful for the opportunity for DS, but also deeply uncomfortable with the whole thing?