The Traveling School

The Traveling School (TTS) is a place-based high school semester program for girls and non-binary students ages 15-18 that travels through southern Africa, South America, or the western US. We believe that strong, compassionate leaders can build an equitable and sustainable global community.

Since 2003, students have tackled rigorous academic courses, developed outdoor skills, and immersed themselves in diverse cultures as part of an all-girl environment that fosters global competence and self-awareness. Our innovative curriculum takes full advantage of the environment and the culture in the regions where we travel: South America, southern Africa, and the western US. This 15-week program travels through several countries (or states) to engage in diverse cultures and inspiring landscapes. In each of our programs, students develop critical inquiry skills, broaden their understanding of power, privilege and identity, pursue outdoor challenges, and strengthen their community-based leadership principles.

We are accredited by Western Association for Schools & College (WASC) and a member of National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). Students come back to take on leadership at their sending high schools, go on to fantastic universities, and they also end up doing amazing work in healthcare, education, nonprofits, and international/aid organizations. We’ve worked with hundreds of schools and students to make this work, and we also offer need-based scholarships – about 40-60% of our students receive some kind of support.