FAQ'S
Where is it?
The Project is based in the eastern panhandle of Jordan roughly 145km east of Amman in an area not seen by most visitors to Jordan. It is mostly open desert, with some nomadism and with settled agricultural communities along the Syrian border. It has considerable tourism potential and possibilities for the extraction of minerals (incl. water).
What are our aims?
- Exploration of common issues
- Sharing of cultural similarities and differences
- Sharing teaching experience
- Learning about the realities of desert life
- Promoting international understanding
- Setting up international exchanges
- Publishing our ideas for others to use.
The long-term aim is to promote the concept of sustainable activity within the communities by encouraging today’s young people to think about issues relating to sustainability.
Who co-ordinates it?
The Project is a voluntary activity in co-operation with the Jordan Badia Research and Development Centre. Currently it is managed by a retired Geography teacher living in Norfolk.
Who takes part?
At the moment it is principally Geographers. We would like to continue this to be able to consolidate on the work already begun. We would very much like to have greater input from Scientists and teachers from other disciplines. There is plenty of scope for Languages, Art and Domestic Science but frankly contact with teachers across the board would be very valuable.
When is the next visit?
One of the following:
- October Half Term 2009
- Whitsun Half Term 2010
- Summer Holiday 2010
What will the group do?
- Run further field workshops with Jordanian teachers
- Support local teacher groups
- Trial some of the 2008 exercises with students
- Expand the existing field exercises base
How many can go?
The numbers are restricted by the available accommodation. Last year we took 9 people, which is about the maximum.
Where do we stay?
At the field centre of the BRDC at Safawi. This was originally built by the British when protecting the Trans-Arabian oil pipeline. It is functional (iron bedsteads) and with good food!
How much does it cost?
The visit is divided into two parts:
A: The Workshop (5 days): this is supported by the BRDC (accommodation and transport) and the British Council (flights). The only cost to participants is a £100 administration fee.
B: The visits to Petra and Wadi Rum (4 days): This is paid for by the participants at cost. In 2008 this came to £294 each.
(A tour to Jordan of this length and activity would normally cost in the region of £1500)
How safe is it?
In a nutshell……very. As safe, or safer than taking a school group to central London. Jordan is politically very stable, the society is very open and the people extremely welcoming.
Contact: see our Contacts page
