ADVENTURE WITH OYA.
Antarctic Student Expeditions | Educational Travel Programs for Students & Families
PAVING THE PATH FOR STUDENTS TO ANTARCTICA.
Set sail on an unforgettable voyage to the world's edge with Ocean Youth Academy! Embark alongside polar specialists on an extraordinary IB-Aligned adventure to the Polar Regions. Engage directly with polar science and gain an understanding of these critical ecosystems, leaving a lasting legacy that echoes beyond your journey.
INTRODUCING…
A once-in-a-lifetime leadership and sustainability journey for high school students, families, and university students around the globe.
YOUR FLOATING CLASSROOM.
The St Helena - Max 98 students, families, and educators
A 10-DAY EXPEDITION BUILT FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS.
The Antarctic Classroom takes a selected group of high school students, university undergrads, and families to the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most remote and consequential places on Earth. Aboard the historic expedition vessel St Helena, students learn, research, and reflect alongside scientists and mentors, with the continent itself as the classroom.
This is more than an expedition. It's a launchpad for confidence, for curiosity, and for the kind of global perspective that universities and employers are looking for. If you're ready to see what's at stake firsthand, this is where it starts.
ITINERARY.
Day 1: Board the expedition vessel and set off along the Beagle Channel.
Days 2–3: Expert talks, workshops, and your first wildlife sightings at sea.
Days 4–7: The heart of the expedition — landings, wildlife, field research, and real Antarctic adventure.
Day 8: One last landing before the northbound crossing begins.
Day 9: Final presentations, project wrap-up, and a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 10: Arrive back in Ushuaia — disembark with stories to last a lifetime.
PROUDLY IN COLLABORATION WITH…
THE ANTARCTIC CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE.
EDUCATION FIRST.
Our curriculum blends strong academics with immersive, real world polar learning. Before departure, students complete Ocean Youth Academy’s Polar Oceans Course, a 10 module virtual program designed to build a foundation in polar science, conservation, and environmental systems.
The Antarctic Classroom Expedition is aligned with International Baccalaureate (IB) learning objectives, with students participating in inquiry based science, field observations, ethical discussions, data collection, and hands on conservation work. The program supports IB Biology, ESS, Geography, Mathematics, and CAS through experiential learning and structured reflection.
OYA also supports students pursuing the Duke of Edinburgh Award, with opportunities connected to Skills, Volunteering, Adventurous Journey, and the Gold Residential Project.
Throughout the voyage, students learn directly from polar guides, scientists, marine biologists, and expedition leaders while contributing to real citizen science and research initiatives in Antarctica.
WITH A HEALTHY DOSE OF ADVENTURE!
Beyond the immersive polar learning experience, students will take part in unforgettable Antarctic adventures including Zodiac cruises, shore landings, wildlife encounters, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, team challenges, and onboard workshops and lectures. And for the brave, there is of course the legendary Polar Plunge.
These experiences are all challenge by choice, but together they form a powerful rite of passage for young people traveling to Antarctica for the first time.
Students will live, learn, and explore alongside their peers, building friendships and memories that last far beyond the voyage itself. All meals are included onboard, with special dietary requirements thoughtfully accommodated.
Interested in joining OYA on an Antarctic Expedition?
ANTARCTIC FELLOWSHIP
IS NOW LIVE.
WHAT FELLOWS RECEIVE.
• Participation in the Antarctic Classroom Expedition
• Access to Ocean Youth Academy's Polar Oceans Course
• Leadership development and sustainability workshops
• Mentorship before, during, and after the expedition
• Participation in citizen science and field learning activities
• Access to the Antarctic Classroom Fellowship and alumni network
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Submit a 1–2 page proposal outlining a project, initiative, research idea, campaign, or community effort you are passionate about pursuing.
We want to understand:
• What issue are you hoping to address?
• Why does it matter to you?
• How could Antarctica help accelerate your vision?
• What impact do you hope to create? -
Create a 60–90 second video introducing yourself and answering the following questions:
• Why do you want to go to Antarctica?
• What makes you a strong candidate for the Fellowship?
• What challenge, passion, or cause drives you?
• How will you use this experience when you return home?This is not about creating a perfect video. We simply want to hear your story in your own words.
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Submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, employer, mentor, coach, or community leader who can speak to your character, leadership potential, and commitment to making a positive impact.
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Share a current CV, portfolio, website, or LinkedIn profile that helps us better understand your background, experiences, skills, and interests.
FELLOWSHIP APPLICATION COMPONENTS.
FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS, SCIENTISTS, AND CHANGE-MAKERS.
The Antarctic Classroom Fellowship provides a limited number of heavily subsidized expedition placements for exceptional young leaders who are passionate about creating positive change in the world.
Designed for emerging scientists, educators, storytellers, conservationists, and sustainability advocates, the fellowship combines an Antarctic expedition with leadership development, mentorship, citizen science, and real world impact projects.
This is more than a trip to Antarctica.
It is an opportunity to learn alongside experts, challenge yourself in one of the most inspiring environments on Earth, and join a global community committed to building a more sustainable future.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
We are looking for curious, motivated individuals aged 18–35 who are passionate about climate, conservation, sustainability, education, science, or community impact.
You do not need to be an expert.
We are looking for people with purpose, initiative, and a vision for how they will use this experience to make a difference.
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN.
Expedition Dates: December 9–18, 2026
Application Deadline: July 30, 2026
Apply by emailing your application components to: fellowship@oceanyouthacademy.com
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR.
We are not selecting fellows based solely on grades, titles, or achievements.
We are looking for curiosity, initiative, leadership potential, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to creating positive change.
The most important question in this application is simple: What will you do with this experience when you come home?
Connecting Kids with Our Polar Oceans
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Connecting Kids with Our Polar Oceans •
We are proud to be a Duke of Edinburgh Award Center
The Award program engages students in skill-building, physical fitness, community volunteering, and team adventures. Success is based on consistent participation, commitment, and progress. Supported by mentors and leaders, participants enhance aspirations, confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills. The program features four key elements: physical activity, skill learning, volunteering, and survival skills.
OYA participants in grades 9-12 pursue personalized paths through recreation, skill development, and service, all while stepping out of their comfort zones in a safe, supervised environment. The final challenge fosters self-confidence, teamwork, and health awareness.
Our Expedition Partners
