INTREPID explorers are on their way to the jungles of South East Asia ready to test their mettle thousands of miles from home.

A troop of Dalton's Dowdales School pupils set off for Malaysia at the weekend as part of an educational adventure expedition.

Thirteen Year 11s and two members of staff set off for the tropical nation on Saturday (July 15) after two years of preparation.

Dave Bowns, science teacher and trip leader, said: “The World Challenge team have worked so hard to raise funds for their trip and I would like to say a huge thank you anyone who has supported us over the last two years, the John Fisher Foundation Trust and the Furness Lions who donated money to the team, and Booths supermarket who allowed us to run a sponsored bag-pack."

During the three week stay in Malaysia, the pupils will take part in jungle treks, rafting, snorkelling and volunteer work, pushing them out of their mental and physical comfort zones.

Click here to learn more about the World Challenge expeditions.

Even before the trip took place the travellers had to contend with getting through their GCSEs, and raising money to fund the trip.

In total, £3,425 was raised by the youngsters. Headteacher at Dowdales, Julie O'Connor, knew they would do their school proud.

She said: "It only seems like yesterday since our World Challenge expedition to Malaysia was launched and now here we are, two years on, reflecting on their fantastic fundraising efforts.

"I have no doubt in my mind that this expedition will be a life-changing experience for our students, trekking with heavy backpacks, being self-sufficient, spending time with refugee children helping to improve their quality of life and learning how to navigate themselves around a country so very different to their own."