TEENAGE explorers from a girls' school on Teesside are off to explore China and Mongolia.

Twelve pupils, aged 16 to 18, from Teesside High School, Eaglescliffe, will visit Beijing and Xian, home of the Terracotta Warriors.

They will temporarily leave home comforts behind to trek into the Tengger desert by camel and stay in traditional felt tents, meeting Mongol families.

A visit to the Great Wall of China is also included.

Last year, a school group explored the jungles of Borneo.

"I'm sure the girls will find it challenging but very rewarding and character building," said expedition leader Rebecca Kirk.