Feel really conflicted ...

[SoreHeadInBed]

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:

1. 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?

1. 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?

Completely get it @SoreHeadInBed I feel the same way. Ds' s school does a similar trip, we received the information and it will be nearly £5k for 17 days, they will be combing charity work (4 days) with some expensive but incredible touristic activities remainder of the time). They have to also help fundraise as part of this but the money won't go towards the cost of the trip, instead it will be donated. Presumably students who are from well to do and well connected families will be able to fund raise lots quite easily. Then there is the white saviour problem, privileged children going on a holiday and also helping a poor community. It sits uneasily with me. I felt very moved and proud when ds said that he had felt uneasy when watching the videos at school as the young poor black children were gazing happily at these European teens. (editing to add this )He said it looked like they had to be grateful and the teens felt probably important and powerful.

We haven't decided yet whether he can go but 5K is better saved for university and making the most of their time there. I think we won't support this trip.

voluntourism is the perfect term

In terms of political correctness..... it's incredibly politically incorrect.

Sums it up perfectly.