Camborne Science and International Academy sixth form student, Yasmin Roberts-Knowles, has told of her trip of a lifetime to Peru thanks to the school’s unique scholarship programme.

Yasmin, who's in year 13, embarked on a 17 hour flight to the country with Charity Challenge, made possible by a scholarship granted by CSIA.

“I plan to study biology at Warwick University in September, and I wanted a challenge which would not only be enriching for my academic studies, but also to fundraise for the British Heart Foundation,” said Yasmin. “CSIA’s VI Form provides financial help as part of this scheme so I applied, was interviewed and couldn’t believe it when I was successful.

“Both myself and members of my family have suffered from heart-related illnesses and I’m delighted that this trip not only helped me raise £3,000 for the charity, but also looks fantastic on my CV.”

The ten-day trip saw Yasmin hike the Lares Trail to the ancient civilisation of Machu Picchu which sits 2,430m above sea level, exploring cultures and meeting local communities along the way. “I have asthma so it was quite a big challenge for me but I enjoyed every minute, experiencing such incredible things which I will remember forever," she said.

“We met local people and learnt so much from them, their strong work ethic which is deep rooted in their culture was very inspiring. We met a lady who weaves artisan items from llama wool which can take up to a year to make.

“At the Huacahuasi Camp, we donated gifts and I was truly humbled by this remote community and their appreciation of our seemingly insignificant gifts.”

Faced with a number of different challenges, Yasmin tackled a nine hour trek to a height of 4,600m, extreme temperature changes, torrential downpours and even the local wildlife. “Huge beetles, bullet ants, tarantulas, macaws and even a jaguar, I was so lucky to see such wonderful things, although there was a snake which was a little too close for comfort at one point," she added.

"The excitement of seeing Machu Picchu drove me onward through the physical challenge of climbing 3,000 steps through the Peruvian rainforest in 35 degree heat, even the Stairs of Death which are near vertical. We finally reached the top and I ticked off the first item off my bucket list when I saw the second Wonder of the World, it was truly astounding.”

Two days later, Yasmin and the group flew to the Amazon Rainforest for the next part of their adventure which incorporated a visit to a witch doctor to learn about the local flora and their natural medicinal purposes.