Global Impact: Sharing UWC Thailand’s Outdoor Education Programme in Uzbekistan
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Rob Carmichael, UWC Thailand Director of Outdoor Experiential Education
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of travelling to Tashkent International School in Uzbekistan to lead an American Canoe Association (ACA) kayak instructor training course. While the trip’s primary focus was to certify new instructors and support the development of their outdoor education programme, it also highlighted the growing recognition of UWC Thailand’s outdoor education as a model of excellence.
Over five days, we completed an ACA Instructor Certification Course, bringing together educators from diverse backgrounds. We focused on high standards of technical skill, safety, group management, and instructional techniques, all grounded in internationally recognised best practices.
What stood out was not only the enthusiasm of the participants, but also their decision to seek guidance from UWC Thailand. Our outdoor education programme is increasingly seen as a leader in the field—respected for its quality of instruction, robust safety protocols, and holistic approach to learning. Schools across the region are reaching out to us for collaboration and insight, recognising our commitment to international standards and the meaningful impact our programmes have on students.
At UWC Thailand, our curriculum goes beyond skill-building: it nurtures resilience, leadership, and environmental stewardship. This comprehensive approach, aligned with standards from the American Canoe Association (ACA), the Climbing Wall Association (CWA), the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA), and other governing bodies, ensures that our students and staff are well-equipped to lead in outdoor education.
Reflecting on my time in Uzbekistan, I returned with a renewed sense of pride in our programme’s growing influence. As more schools look to enhance their outdoor and experiential learning, UWC Thailand is becoming a trusted source of guidance. It is inspiring to see our efforts shaping the future of outdoor education within the broader international school community.