A school has left parents in total confusion after offering its students an exotic four-week excursion to Cambodia - for £4,500.
Controversial South Wigston High School, which isn't private, has set an eye-watering price tag for the trip.
According to an email sent out by the Leicestershire school, those lucky enough to go will be able to try scuba-diving, visit Cambodia’s two largest cities and get stuck in with community projects.
But the cost has left mums and dads suggesting only the most wealthy people would be able to afford it, reports LeicestershireLive.
The school, which hit the headlines after taking girls out of class and putting them into isolation because their skirts were too short, insists students will be offered support in their efforts to raise funds to pay for their tickets.
But that hasn't stopped questions being asked with the country coping with the Cost of Living crisis.
Responding to a post on a local Facebook page, one person exclaimed: “How can they think anyone in this current climate can afford that?”
While a second added: “I feel bad for parents having to explain to their excited child that they cannot go because of how much it is.
"Kids aren't stupid but they're kids and will obviously go home excited to go away with their mates. Madness for the schools to put parents and kids under pressure like that when there are decent places in the UK to visit.”
Others spent time remembering their own school days where schools trips took place closer to home – or, if they were lucky, included a short hop over the Channel.
One remembered: "I think my secondary school went camping in the Derbyshire Dales. It was brilliant. I remember making beef paste sandwiches, and the woodwork teacher ******** me round the head for not spreading it to all the corners. I have very fond memories of the week away."
However, one parent was quick to note the potential benefits of the trip. They said: “Four weeks child-free, why didn't I send my child to this school?”
The email to parents added that children were encouraged to raise funds and there would be support for this.
Another commenter picked up on that, adding: “Expensive yes, but what a great experience if you can afford it. If they fundraise and you save towards it, I think it's an awesome opportunity.”
A spokesperson for the school said: "This is an external company running the trip and we are one of at least 17 schools in area that advertise this opportunity to pupils.
"Camps International have taken over 30,000 young people on ‘once in a lifetime’ expeditions.
"As explained in the letter to parents, pupils are supported by Camps International to fund raise over two years to cover the cost of the trip, making trips equally accessible to children of all backgrounds."
