High School Student Experience

A hands-on introduction to conservation science for high school groups, offering immersive learning alongside elephants in a real-world, research-driven environment.

Designed specifically for secondary school groups, the High School Student Experience is a unique school group elephant conservation programme in Laos. Hosted at the Elephant Conservation Center (ECC), this multi-day educational experience introduces students to real-world conservation through guided observation, group activities, and expert-led sessions.

Students gain insight into elephant behaviour, welfare, and the role of conservation science, while developing critical thinking, teamwork, and environmental awareness. The programme also explores the cultural and ethical dimensions of wildlife protection in Southeast Asia, making it a powerful learning opportunity outside the classroom.

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Give your students a rare chance to observe elephants in forested and semi-wild habitats, guided by conservation professionals.
Visit a fully functioning elephant hospital and socialisation area, offering real-life insights into wildlife care and behaviour.
Enrich classroom learning with expert-led sessions delivered by ECC’s veterinarians, biologists, and local mahouts.
Explore key topics such as animal welfare, biodiversity, and sustainability in a unique Southeast Asian context.
Designed to complement secondary school curricula in subjects like biology, geography, and environmental science.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Who Is This For?

This programme is designed for:

Secondary school student groups (ages 13+)
Accompanied by teachers or supervisors
Schools seeking outdoor, hands-on environmental learning opportunities

No prior experience in conservation is required. Activities are adapted to suit varied learning levels and curricula. Participants must be comfortable spending time outdoors and being near large animals.

Group Size & Accommodation

We can accommodate up to 40 students plus supervising teachers.

Accommodation options:

Dormitories
Lakeside Bungalows
Forest Houses
Deluxe Lodges

All options are located within the grounds of the Elephant Conservation Center and offer safe, comfortable lodging immersed in nature.

PROGRAMME ITINERARY

Arrival & Introduction

Minivan pick-up in Luang Prabang and boat transfer to ECC
Introduction & Safety Briefing
Lunch at the Nursery and observation of mother-calf behaviour
Elephant Hospital tour with a vet or biologist
Observe elephant bathing and daily enrichment
Group A: Food plantation visit / Group B: Target training session
Conservation Video and Q&A with an ECC biologist
Lao-style dinner

Forest Immersion & Socialisation

Morning trek into the forest to meet elephants in natural setting
Learn to observe and interpret social behaviours and group dynamics
Visit to the Socialisation Area to observe natural herd interactions
Afternoon: second rotation of plantation or target training
Lao-style dinner

Male Elephants, Bamboo Forest & Departure

Forest walk to observe ECC’s re-socialised male elephants
Visit the Indoor Information Center: ecology, biology & cultural context
Plant bamboo or trees in the Bamboo Forest or join handicrafts
Farewell lunch before minivan return to Luang Prabang (~17:30 arrival)

Optional Add-On Days

4- and 5-day programmes are available upon request and can be tailored to suit specific curriculum objectives. Extended programmes can include:

Elephant behaviour monitoring data collection
Ecology and sustainability sessions
Creative projects linked to conservation communication or cultural exchange (in collaboration with teachers)

Contact us below to enquire about extended options or request a sample itinerary.

FEES, INCLUSIONS & CERTIFICATION

Fees

Programme fees vary depending on group size, length of stay, and accommodation type. For a full breakdown of pricing, please refer to our High School Programme Brochure below.

Inclusions

The programme fee includes all activities, accommodation, meals, return transport from Luang Prabang, and support from our English-speaking education and veterinary team. It does not include flights, travel insurance, or any costs before or after the programme in Luang Prabang.

Certification

ECC provides Certificates of Participation for all students and can provide supporting documentation for international schools or curriculum alignment upon request.

WHY BRING YOUR STUDENTS TO ECC?

Located in Sayaboury Province—home to the largest population of elephants in Laos—the Elephant Conservation Center is the country’s only facility with an active breeding programme and dedicated research labs. Our education programmes are designed to:

Bridge science and environmental ethics
Inspire students through real-world conservation themes
Foster a deeper understanding of elephants, forest ecosystems, and sustainable solutions

Students leave with broadened horizons, practical knowledge, and a new perspective on human–wildlife relationships in Southeast Asia.