Young Leaders Adventures (YLA) is a non-profit organisation offering adventure expeditions and leadership development programmes for teenagers aged 14 to 17. We combine sport, community engagement and environmental awareness to help each young person realise their potential.

What is your educational philosophy?

We believe in ‘leadership through action’: leadership cannot be taught solely through theory, but is developed through practical experience, genuine commitment and facing real challenges. Our programmes place young people in positions of real responsibility within a safe and supportive environment.

What kind of programmes do you offer?

We offer:

• Adventure trips during the school holidays (7–15-day stays)
• Leadership in Action Workshops (annual programme project support)
• Workshops and talks in partnership with schools and organisations
• Annual intercultural programme with an international community engagement component

How transferable are the skills acquired during the stay?

The skills developed at YLA (leadership, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, resilience) are directly applicable:

• Throughout their school career
• In community and sporting life
• In social relations
• In future career plans

We help participants make these connections during debriefings.

What is the age for taking part?​

Our programmes are aimed at teenagers aged between 14 and 17 at the time of their stay.

Does my teenager need to be particularly fit?

No, no specific fitness level is required. Our activities are suitable for all fitness levels. All that matters is motivation, curiosity and the desire to push yourself. We encourage every participant to take on their own challenges at their own pace.

My teenager is introverted/shy – is that a problem?

Absolutely not! Our small groups (6 to 9 participants) and our supportive approach allow everyone to flourish. We have found that many introverted young people reveal exceptional leadership qualities in our programmes. There is a place for everyone at YLA..

Are the programmes mixed?

Yes, all our programmes are mixed.

My teenager doesn’t speak English/French – can they take part?

Yes! Our programmes are bilingual (French and English). We tailor our communication to each participant’s language level. It’s also a great opportunity to practise English or French in a supportive environment.

How many participants per stay?

We deliberately limit our groups to a maximum of 6 to 9 participants to ensure personalised support and genuine team spirit. This group size allows each young person to play an active role and receive individual attention.

What happens if my teenager doesn't get on with the group?

Our small groups and attentive supervision enable us to spot any tensions quickly. Our activity leaders are trained in group management and mediation. Every challenge is an opportunity for learning, supported with kindness.

What happens if my teenager wants to come home early?

If your teenager is experiencing significant difficulties, we will contact you immediately so that we can work together to find the best solution. Refunds for missed sessions will depend on the circumstances and will be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Are the holidays suitable for teenagers with special needs?

We are not a therapeutic programme, but we do assess each situation on a case-by-case basis. We take care to form groups of similar participants to ensure that the experience is beneficial for everyone.

What activities are on offer?

Our programmes combine:

• Adventure sports: hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, rock climbing, via ferrata, surfing
• Team sports: touch rugby, football, rowing, sailing, etc...
• Unique experiences: meetings with top athletes and inspiring figures
• Community engagement: environmental clean-up initiatives, community projects
• Personal development: leadership in action.

My teenager is afraid of water/heights – what should I do?

We always tailor our activities to each participant’s comfort level. No one is forced to do anything that causes them significant difficulty. Our aim is to encourage people to push themselves, not to create unnecessary stress. Our instructors are trained to support everyone step by step

What happens in the event of bad weather?

We always have alternative activities planned. Safety always takes precedence over the itinerary. In the mountains, we’re used to dealing with the weather and know how to adapt our plans whilst ensuring the quality of the experience.

Will my teenager have any “homework” to do?

Our programmes include debriefing and reflection sessions to help participants consolidate what they have learnt. These are not school assignments, but informal opportunities to discuss their experiences, feelings and self-discoveries, helping to anchor their practical experiences and make connections with their everyday lives.

Can my teenager bring their own equipment (bike, kayak, etc.)?

For safety and consistency reasons, we provide all certified technical equipment. Your child may bring their personal belongings as per the list provided.

Who supervises the stays?

Our holidays are supervised by:

• Certified professionals for each activity (mountain guides, qualified instructors)
• Counsellors trained to work with teenagers
• All our supervisors are trained in first aid and hold the necessary qualifications.

What is the staff-to-student ratio?

With a maximum of 9 participants per trip, we guarantee an exceptional staff-to-child ratio of approximately 1 adult to every 3 or 4 children, which is well above the usual standards.

How do you manage security?

• A thorough risk assessment for each activity
• Professional and certified safety equipment
• Regular safety briefings before each activity
• Constant monitoring by qualified professionals
• Emergency protocols established and tested
• 24/7 contact with parents

What happens in the event of an accident or illness?

• Our supervisors are trained in first aid, and a designated person is responsible for providing first aid.
• We have emergency procedures in place for every situation.
• Parents are contacted immediately if there is a problem
• We work with selected local medical services
• Medical insurance is included in our rates, with 24/7 assistance.

My teenager is on medication – how is it going?

You must inform us of any medical treatment you are receiving at the time of registration. Medication is kept by the supervisory team and administered as prescribed by the designated person. We require a copy of the prescription and a patient information leaflet in French or English. 

What type of accommodation is provided?

• Base camps: Comfortable accommodation, chalets and private homes, carefully selected
• Camping: A campsite in the heart of the countryside, with tents and professional equipment provided 
• All our accommodation options guarantee safety, comfort and respect for everyone’s privacy

How are the dormitories/rooms organised?

Rooms are single-sex and organised into small groups (maximum of three). We respect everyone’s privacy whilst fostering a sense of group cohesion. If your child has any specific preferences, please let us know when you register.

What about meals?

• All meals are included in the price
• Balanced menus tailored to the energy requirements of the activities, prepared by chefs and caterers.
• We cater for special dietary requirements (vegetarian, allergies, intolerances, religious restrictions)
• Participants sometimes help to prepare meals (camping trips, group activities)

What should participants bring?

A detailed equipment list will be provided once you have registered. In general:

• Clothing suitable for the activities (sportswear, walking boots)
• Personal items (toiletries, towels)
• Sleeping bag for camping (available on request)
• Reusable water bottle
• Sun cream and sun protection

All the necessary equipment (kayaks, helmets, life jackets, etc.) is provided by YLA.

Do you have a code of conduct?

Yes, all participants must agree to and sign our Code of Conduct, which ensures a safe, respectful and rewarding experience for everyone. This code sets out expected behaviour, safety rules and the consequences of any breaches.

What is your policy on alcohol, tobacco and drugs?

Zero tolerance. The possession, consumption, purchase or sale of alcohol, tobacco (including e-cigarettes) and drugs (whether illicit or misused prescription medication) is strictly prohibited throughout the duration of the stay, even if permitted by local law or the law of the participant’s country of origin.

Any breach of this policy will result in immediate exclusion from the programme without a refund, and parents will be contacted to arrange for the participant’s return at their own expense. This policy applies to all participants, without exception.

What about weapons and dangerous items?

The possession of weapons, knives (except pocket knives with a folding blade less than 8 cm long for supervised outdoor activities), slingshots, objects that could be used as weapons, or any dangerous object is strictly prohibited

The technical equipment required for the activities (ropes, carabiners, etc.) is provided and checked by our professional instructors.

What happens if the rules are broken?

Depending on the severity of the breach:

• A verbal warning for minor offences (followed by a discussion aimed at raising awareness)
• Written warning with notification to parents
• Immediate expulsion from the programme for serious breaches (alcohol, drugs, dangerous behaviour, harassment, violence)

In all cases, parents are informed. In the event of exclusion, the participant must return home at their own expense and will not be reimbursed for the cost of the stay.

What is your policy on romantic relationships and sexual behaviour?

To maintain a safe and respectful environment, and in accordance with local cultural norms:

• Sexual relations, exclusive relationships and public displays of affection are not permitted
• We never leave a teenager alone with an adulte
• We comply with the J+S guidelines 
• These rules ensure everyone’s emotional and physical safety and help maintain a positive group dynamic

Any breach may result in exclusion from the programme.

Can participants leave the group at any time?

No. For safety reasons, leaving the group or the camp boundaries without permission or supervision is grounds for exclusion. Participants must always remain with the group or a supervisor

At specific times (free time), participants are free to move about within a designated area; outside the base camps, the buddy system is in place..

How do you deal with harassment and inappropriate behaviour?

YLA is committed to maintaining a harassment-free environment. Any form of harassment (bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination) is taken very seriously and may result in immediate expulsion.

Participants are encouraged to report any inappropriate behaviour to the organisers immediately. Failure to report a breach of which one is aware also constitutes a breach of the code of conduct..

Should my teenager report it if another participant breaks the rules?

Yes. Participants are responsible for reporting any breaches of the code of conduct or any dangerous behaviour they witness to the supervisors. This rule is designed to ensure everyone’s safety.

A participant who fails to report a serious breach of which they are aware may also be subject to sanctions.

How much does a stay cost?

Prices vary depending on the duration and the programme. They include:

• Accommodation with full board
• All activities
• Professional supportl
• Technical facilities
• Insurance (third-party liability and accident)
• Local transfers

Not included: Transport to the meeting points

Please contact us for detailed rates: yla@yladventures.org

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we offer interest-free instalment payments

You can apply during the enrolment interview, and a payment plan will be offered to you

What is the cancellation policy?

• More than 60 days in advance: full refund minus administration fees
• Between 30 and 60 days: 50% refund
• Less than 30 days: no refund except in cases of force majeure (serious illness, accident)
• We are happy to transfer your booking free of charge if you find a suitable replacement for the stay.

We strongly recommend that you take out cancellation insurance with your insurer..

How do I enrol my teenager?

1. Request an interview 
2. If your application is successful, we will send you the full registration pack to sign
3. Please complete the application with the required documents
4. Please pay the deposit/balance to confirm your booking
5. We’ll be with you right up until you set off!!

Places are limited and allocated following an interview with the supervisory team..

Why is there an application process?

The application process is not designed to exclude, but rather to:

• Ensure that the participant’s expectations and motivations align with what we offer
• Ensuring group cohesion and an equal experience for everyone
• Understanding each participant’s specific needs in order to provide them with better support

What is the purpose of the interview?

This is an opportunity to

• Getting to know each other​
• Understanding what motivates young people
• Answering all your questions
• Explain the programme in detail
• Ensure a good fit between the participant and the YLA ethos

This exchange is just as important to you as it is to us!

What are you looking for in candidates?

We are looking for young people who:​

• Sont motivés et curieux de vivre cette expérience
• Show an open-minded attitude and respect for others​
• Are ready to step out of their comfort zone
• Want to get actively involved (environment, community)
• Want to grow and discover themselves
• Are able to live in small groups and contribute to cohesion

Are all applicants accepted?

The vast majority of applicants are accepted. In rare cases, we may recommend postponing participation if:

• The reasons do not align with our programme
• The participant is not ready for the intensity or level of independence required
• Specific requirements cannot be safely accommodated

This decision is always made in the young person’s best interests and communicated in a supportive and transparent manner.

How long does the selection process take?

It takes approximately two weeks from the submission of the complete application to confirmation of acceptance. We will keep you informed at every stage and are available to answer any questions you may have.

How can I stay in touch with my teenager whilst they’re away?

• 24/7 support for parents in emergencies
• Regular updates via email or WhatsApp (photos, group news)
• Participants are not allowed to use their phones during activities to ensure a fully immersive experience, but may call their parents at designated times

Why is access to the phone restricted? 

We encourage:

• Digital disconnection and reconnecting with nature:
• Genuine exchanges between participant
• Being fully present in the experience
• Group cohesion

This is an important part of the YLA experience. Young people can contact their parents at designated times.

Can I receive regular updates?

Yes! We send regular updates (photos, videos, daily reports) to parents via a private group. You can follow your teenager’s adventure whilst allowing them to make the most of their experience.

What is your approach to environmental issues?

• Active promotion of environmental awareness
• Practical actions: cleaning up footpaths, rivers and beaches
• Responsible practices: waste minimisation, respect for flora and fauna
• Partnerships with local environmental organisations
• Training in environmentally responsible outdoor practices

Do participants really contribute to specific projects?

Yes! Our community initiatives are tangible and measurable:

• Amount of waste collected during clean-up operations
• Documented restored areas
• Partnerships with local organisations that benefit directly from the work carried out

This isn’t just symbolic: it’s a genuine commitment that makes a real difference

How do you incorporate civic values?

Through:

• The example: 
  
• In action: practical community engagement projects
• Reflection: debriefs on everyone’s role in society
• The event: discussions with committed individuals