Into the Heart

Get ready for the trip of a lifetime with Into the Heart 2026.

Into the Heart has been developed specifically for school leaders, teachers, and school support staff. It is quite simply, an opportunity for participants to visit the projects ERF is passionately supporting, and the remarkable people we are walking with.

Participants will experience direct contact with the recipients of the generosity that flows from their EREA school communities. It is our aim that Edmund Rice identity and charism, will be at the heart of this visit, along with a greater understanding of sustainable development in action.

The Into the Heart Immersion Hub provides you with key information for your immersion.
Please contact kdixon@edmundrice.org if you have any queries.

Congratulations on your decision to participate in Edmund Rice Foundation’s Into the Heart Immersion to Kenya in September 2026.

We welcome you aboard a journey of eye opening and life changing experiences. Your full application should be lodged as soon as possible and no later than 4 December 2025 to  secure your spot.

Once received, you will be asked to pay a $500.00 deposit. Deposits are due by 27 Feb 2026.

Application Form

The application includes important forms for completion;
> Participant waiver forms
> Medical information
> Travel details form

Once you have compiled your application, please email to Kate at kdixon@edmundrice.org

1. As it gets closer to your trip next year, there are a few actions now required to prepare;
3. 1. Flights -please send through a copy or see below details on how to book
4. 2. Immunisation for Yellow fever – please send through a copy
5. 3. Passport – please send through a copy of your current passport
6. 4. Policies – please read and sign as required
7. 5. Kenya Visa – please apply and once complete send a copy
8. 6. Working with children – please send through a copy of your current WWC

1. flights

Once applications close, we will provide you with the preferred flight details.

You will need to arrange your flights. ERF’s travel agent details are Cayla Gibson from Sterling Travel Co. (but you are welcome to use your own if you prefer).
Cayla Gibson, cayla.gibson@envoyage.com.au.
Cayla is aware of the upcoming immersion and would be delighted to assist you with your flights.

Send a copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org

2.  immunisations

You will need to visit a Travel Doctor for Immunisations. You MUST have a Yellow Fever vaccination and carry this immunisation certificate with your passport when departing Kenya and entering another country (including Australia).

• Send a copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org

3. Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date to Australia.

• Send a copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org

4. POLICIES

Documents to read, sign and return are ERF’s:

– Child Protection policy (read)
– ERFA safety and security policy (read)
– Child Protection code of conduct and Child Protection Policy self declaration form (read and sign)

Return signed copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org

• 5. KENYAN VISA

  Apply for your Kenyan Visa. You can apply for your Kenyan visa within 30 days of travel at https://etakenya.go.ke/

• The ETA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance.

Please have the following documents ready before starting your application.

Valid passport for at least six (6) months after your planned date of arrival into Kenya, with at least one blank page

• – Selfie or passport-type photo
• – Contact information, email address and phone number
• – Details of your arrival and departure itinerary
• – Accommodation booking confirmation(s) (an address for your stay is Loretto Mary Ward. Address:  Maasai West Road – Karen Nairobi, Kenya)
• – Reason for trip: Tourism (this is sufficent)
• – Credit card, debit card or other means of payment
• Send a copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org

6. Working with Children

1. If you have not already done so, you will need to provide us a copy of your Working with Children check (or your state equivalent). Further information for applications is available at:

Qld: https://www.bluecard.qld.gov.au
Vic: http://www.workingwithchildren.vic.gov.au
NSW: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-for-a-working-with-children-checkhttps://www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au/child-safe-organisations/working-with-children-check

• Send a copy to kdixon@edmundrice.org