India 2026: An Unforgettable Experience

A group of over 40 students from across the Frank Field Education Trust recently returned from an unforgettable immersion experience to India, combining cultural exploration with community engagement and social awareness activities.

The journey began on Wednesday 29 April 2026, when the group travelled from Manchester to Heathrow before boarding an overnight flight to New Delhi.

After arriving on Thursday, 30 April, students took part in an immersion programme across the Indian capital. The first day included visits to some of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks, including the Lotus Temple, ISKCON Temple, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Chanakyapuri, Hanuman Mandir and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Students also met children from PRATYeK, who accompanied them throughout the visit and helped create meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange and friendship.

On Friday, 1 May, the group split to take part in two different programmes. One group visited Anjali Ma’am School and the Mother Teresa Home, while the other worked alongside the Salaam Baalak Trust and joined an Advocacy Walk with PRATYeK children. The following day, the groups swapped activities, ensuring that every participant experienced both programmes and gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people in India.

One of the highlights of the visit came on Sunday, 3 May, when students travelled to Agra to visit the world-renowned Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The group also enjoyed lunch at Sheroes Hangout Café, a social enterprise that supports survivors of acid attacks and promotes women’s empowerment.

The educational experience continued on Monday, 4 May, with collaborative activities and engagement sessions alongside PRATYeK participants. On Tuesday, 5 May, students spent a full day with PRATYeK, taking part in circus arts workshops and visiting the vibrant Paharganj district. The day concluded with an Indian Premier League cricket match at Arun Jaitley Stadium, giving students the chance to experience one of India’s most popular sporting events and the electric atmosphere of live IPL cricket.

The trip concluded on Wednesday, 6 May, when the group departed New Delhi and travelled home to Manchester via Heathrow.

The visit provided students with valuable insights into Indian culture, history and society while fostering international friendships and developing a greater understanding of social issues affecting young people. Through their work with organisations including PRATYeK and Salaam Baalak Trust, participants gained firsthand experience of community-led initiatives and returned home with lasting memories, new perspectives and a deeper appreciation of global citizenship.

Ms K Dixon, Director of Education at the Trust said: “Working alongside PRATYeK and the other organisations we visited gave our students a unique insight into the lives of young people in Delhi. The friendships they formed and the experiences they shared will stay with them for many years to come.”