From classroom to the edge of the world: deputy head's latest adventure

While many spent the Easter break enjoying the comfort of home with family and friends, one local deputy headteacher set off for the edge of the world in pursuit of his latest adventure.

Steve Hill MBE undertook an extraordinary Arctic expedition to Svalbard – a remote and rugged Norwegian archipelago lying halfway between  mainland Norway and the North Pole. He described the experience as “brutal, relentless and unforgettable”. 

The deputy headteacher at St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Shaw braved freezing temperatures that pushed him to his limits every day. 

He said: "Each day was spent pulling a heavy pulk — a sled packed with essential supplies — across endless snow and ice. Progress was slow and physically demanding, with every step requiring determination in the bitter cold. 

“We were out there in the freezing temperatures for hours each day, just pulling and moving forward. It was exhausting, but also incredibly rewarding.” 

The team wild camped throughout the expedition, pitching tents on the frozen ground as temperatures dropped even further overnight.  

Steve said: "Sleeping in such extreme conditions was a challenge in itself, but the sense of adventure never faded. 

"One of the most intense parts of the journey was the nightly Polar Bear Watch. With the real possibility of encountering polar bears, Steve and his team took turns staying awake to guard the camp through the long Arctic nights. 

“It definitely keeps you on edge,” he said. “You’re out there in their environment, so you have to be alert at all times.” 

Despite the harsh conditions, the expedition brought moments of incredible natural beauty. Steve encountered Arctic foxes weaving through the snow and spotted reindeer moving across the vast, silent landscape — experiences he describes as “truly special.” 

Now back in school, Steve, who was recognised as one of the UK's Top 100 Most Influential People for 2026, has been sharing his adventure with his pupils, who have been captivated by his stories of endurance, teamwork, and exploration. 

“It’s been brilliant to be back and talk to the children about it,” he said. “They’ve loved hearing what it was really like out there and after hearing about freezing nights, pulling sleds across the Arctic and keeping watch for polar bears, there’s one question that keeps coming up from curious pupils: “What’s next, sir?” 

“I’m now busy planning my next adventure - so watch this space.” 

Steve is widely respected as an education leader, philanthropist and adventurer. He is the Founder of Team Hill Charitable Trust, a charity delivering life-changing projects both locally and in Uganda, including school construction and development, clean water well projects in remote communities and vital healthcare initiatives that improve and save lives. 

Steve also serves as Chairman of the Uganda Marathon, using sport as a powerful catalyst for positive social change, bringing together participants from around the world to support grassroots community projects. 

A sought-after motivational speaker, Steve inspires audiences with messages of resilience, purpose and service.  

As an accomplished adventurer, he has been voted among the Top 10 Explorers and is the author of the best-selling book What’s Next Sir?