Showcasing Jordan for schools: history, culture, faith and archaeology

Teachers, EVCs, senior leaders and tour operators interested in hearing more about Jordan as an educational visit destination enjoyed an informative and inspiring day at the opulent 87 Barts Close venue near St Paul’s Cathedral, London.

Organised for the Jordan Tourism Board by School Travel Organiser, it was a chance to discover why Jordan is a fascinating choice for school groups planning an overseas trip with a difference, and attendees were able to hear from a range of speakers and spend time networking.

There was an introduction from Rawan AlFaqir, First Secretary at the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. This was followed by a range of presentations from the Jordan Tourism Board, Royal Jordanian, and Challenger Team.

Graham Yandell MBE from School Travel Organiser travelled to Jordan in October and wrapped the presentations by sharing some of his personal experiences and photos from his time travelling throughout the country. Graham said: “I must say it was a remarkable country. There are some fantastic opportunities for school travel there. So personally I would thoroughly recommend it and today’s been an opportunity to put across that message, how best to visit Jordan and what to experience.”

Photo Gallery… pictures from the day

Full screen in popup

• Previous
• Next

Showcase speakers (L-R): Captain Maen Odeh, Challenger Team; Clive Hamilton, Royal Jordanian; Rawan AlFaqir, First Secretary at the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; Mohi Uddin, Royal Jordanian; Abdullah Krayshan, Jordan Tourism Board; Graham Yandell MBE, School Travel Organiser.

1/14

show caption

A little about Jordan, where education extends beyond classrooms

Jordan is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Petra and those attending will be able to learn about some of the many other reasons to visit, including fabulous cuisine, natural beauty and desert activities.

The ancient city of Petra is one of Jordan’s national treasures and by far its best-known tourist attraction. Petra is the legacy of the Nabataeans, industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. Schools can opt for one of the many walking trails to take in the main sites (the Al-Siq to Treasury route is ideal for first-timers), and even spend time in the dedicated museum to see hundreds of ancient artefacts from different ages.

Jordan has another six UNESCO World Heritage sites which are all worth exploring. Highlights include Wadi Rum, an impressive valley cut into the sandstone and granite rocks in southern Jordan, or the small desert castle of Qasr Amra that once formed a large Umayyad complex.

Did you know that Earth’s lowest point can be found in Jordan’s Dead Sea? The country is bustling with other geographical marvels, including mountainous regions and a large desert. For something extra special, Dana Biosphere Reserve showcases the area’s varied geology with limestone, sandstone and granite rock formations to sample.

Pupils studying religious education can take part in faith tours which highlight the country’s important areas like Tell Al-Kharrar, also known as Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah’s Hill) and the area of the churches of Saint John the Baptist near the river. Situated in a pristine natural environment, the site is believed to be the location where Jesus of Nazareth was baptised by John the Baptist.

Or for those in search of an adrenaline fix, Aqaba in the south is where students can really test their water skills and build confidence as a group. Not only are there multiple boat trips which offer scenic views of the surrounding bays, but also amazing snorkelling opportunities plus jet ski classes, canoeing and plenty more options for those looking to make a splash.