Earlier this year I had the privilege of joining a group of first-time travelling teachers on a WorldStrides Teacher Training Trip to Cairns. These trips are designed to give educators a taste of the WorldStrides experience: how we handle logistics, what it feels like to travel with us, and the kind of support they can expect when they take their own students away on tour. For many of the teachers in our group, their upcoming tours were overseas or interstate, but this trip gave them the opportunity to experience, first-hand, what it’s like to travel with WorldStrides.
Here’s a wrap-up of our three days together in tropical Far North Queensland.
Day One: Diving into the Experience
After a smooth arrival in Cairns, meeting our Tour Director at the airport, our group checked into the Cairns Queenslander Hotel & Apartments—our home base for the trip. Excitement was high, and for many teachers, this was their very first experience travelling with WorldStrides.
Our first stop was the Cairns Aquarium, where a Wildlife Educator guided us through an inspiring tour. The highlight wasn’t just the incredible marine life on display—it was the way the educator connected the exhibits to broader conservation and learning opportunities. Teachers were already buzzing with ideas of how they could translate these experiences into classroom conversations.
The evening was spent at Dundee’s on the Waterfront, where we hosted a WorldStrides presentation followed by shared plates, dinner, and plenty of conversation. This was the perfect chance for teachers to ask questions, meet fellow educators, and get a deeper understanding of what to expect from their upcoming tours. The mix of professional insight and relaxed social setting set the tone beautifully for the days ahead.
Day Two: A Day on the Great Barrier Reef
No trip to Cairns would be complete without seeing one of the world’s natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef. After breakfast, we set off early to board the Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel cruise.
We were lucky enough to have two dedicated marine biologists with us throughout the day. They brought the reef to life with fascinating learning presentations, helping teachers connect what we were seeing to the bigger picture of reef health, conservation, and education.
The day was filled with unforgettable activities: a glass-bottom boat tour that gave us a window into the underwater world without even getting wet, followed by a submarine ride that offered a new perspective of the reef. Of course, the highlight was when the marine biologists joined us in the water for guided snorkelling sessions. They pointed out coral structures, identified species, and even let us touch certain types of coral and marine life—a hands-on learning moment that teachers said they would never forget.
For many teachers, this was their first time snorkelling on the reef, and the sense of wonder was palpable. From vibrant coral gardens to schools of colourful fish, it was an experience that exceeded expectations. Lunch was served on board, and between dives and snorkels, the group soaked up the sunshine and the once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere.
Back on shore, we returned to the hotel briefly before heading out again for an evening at the Cairns Night Markets. With free time to explore and arrange their own dinner, the teachers enjoyed wandering through the stalls, sampling local food, and picking up souvenirs to remember their trip.
Day Three: Crystal Cascades and Farewell
Our final morning began with breakfast before heading out to the lush Crystal Cascades. Surrounded by rainforest and waterfalls, it was the perfect way to reflect on the trip and enjoy one last adventure together.
From there, we checked out of the hotel and made our way to the airport. Although it was sad to say goodbye, the group left feeling more confident, inspired, and connected—not only to WorldStrides, but also to each other as part of a growing community of teachers who travel with us.
The Cairns Teacher Training Trip wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about giving teachers:
- First-hand experience of travelling with WorldStrides before leading their own school tours.
- Confidence in logistics—from transfers and accommodation to activities and meals, everything was seamless.
- Connection with peers—the chance to build relationships with other teachers, preparing for their own adventures.
- A taste of the extraordinary—so they could see the quality of experiences their students would enjoy.
For many in the group, this trip removed the unknowns and built excitement for the journeys ahead. It’s exactly why WorldStrides runs these programs: to make teachers feel supported, prepared, and inspired.
Cairns was the perfect backdrop for our Teacher Training Trip—a mix of learning, adventure, and unforgettable memories. I came away feeling proud of what we deliver at WorldStrides and inspired by the teachers who are about to give their students life-changing travel opportunities.
Next Teacher Training Trip?
We’re thrilled to share that we’ll be running another Teacher Training Trip to Cairns in March 2026. If you’re a first-time travelling teacher with a WorldStrides tour booked, this could be your chance to experience the magic of the reef, connect with fellow educators, and build confidence for your own school trip.
Express your interest here.
