MORE THAN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Considered by many to be the ultimate “must do kiwi experience”, in 2012 Outward Bound will celebrate 50 years of delivering adventure-based personal development courses to nearly 60 000 New Zealanders of all ages. As the organisation has moved with the times, nearly 2000 people attend Outward Bound annually and each gets to take away something special. While the core work of Outward Bound is developing young people, based on customer

As the organisation looks forward to the next half-century, it does so in good heart with a respected track record behind it as a leader in the outdoor education sector. Testament to the work and the philosophy of Outward Bound is that between the staff at the Anakiwa-based Outward Bound is the only organisation to place in the Top 5 Annual Best Place to Work survey for 5 years in a row.

Outward Bound provides youth, adult, parent and teen courses and an increasing range of specialist professional and corporate programs. But with a nod to its roots, Outward Bound New Zealand is now the only one of the 47 global members to retain the original Classic 21-day course.

The core experience is still a series of challenges - kayaking, rock climbing, sailing, tramping and the traditional solo experience. Moreover though is the opportunity to take away a whole lot more than the exhilaration of adventure.

It’s not news to say that the outdoors is a great classroom and a fantastic medium for learning. Gathered in a watch of 14 people, it is about resilience, adventure and challenge – and reward. For some it is about raising their sights on what is possible, for others it is gaining focus and clarity. Many gain a renewed out and get the most from life, with common feedback such as “it changed my life”, “best experience ever.” For many, it is an experience that they draw on throughout their lives.

A list of past-participants cover all walks of life including adventurer Mark Inglis, yachties Grant Dalton, Tom Schnackenberg and to Pete Montgomery, All Blacks Andrew Ellis, Richard Kahui, Norm Hewitt, Xavier Rush, civic and political leaders Dick Hubbard and Rodney Hide, cricketer Adam Parore, and broadcasters Milne and Maggie Barry.

The typical question posed by the organisation is “Have you done your Outward Bound course yet?” It is both an invitation and a challenge - aptitude and ability in the great outdoors is but one component in the program. While it is a global organisation, the values are quintessentially kiwi of can-do, teamwork, can access sponsorship. Outward Bound has built up a wide network of community partnerships, legacies and trusts that can assist would-be students.

So, have you done your Outward Bound course yet?

For an enrolment pack call 0800 OUTWARD (688 927) or for more details www. outwardbound.co.nz.