Outward bound is described as a life changing opportunity and I couldn’t agree more.

There are many different courses available at Outward Bound to cater to many different groups of people. Chaase Williams and I were privileged enough to be able to be part of the 21 Day adventure known as the Mind Body Soul course during December 2022. 

During these courses you learn many things, not only about yourself but others. At Outward Bound you are sorted into Watches (groups of 14) which you spend the course duration with. Over the duration of the course you will get to know these people very well, it is very common that people who meet at Outward Bound become friends for life.

During your course you get to do many different activities, ranging from tramping to sailing and rock climbing to kayaking, among other things. To some these activities would seem daunting, but the instructors at Outward Bound are incredible and encouraging so even if you aren’t confident to begin with by the end of each scheme (activity) you will be enjoying yourself. Each Watch is assigned two instructors who will be with you for the duration of the course, sharing the hardships and good times with you.

Despite being remotely located in Anakiwa, Marlborough, you don’t have to rough it every night. At Anakiwa there is a full time chef to prepare meals for when you aren’t away on a scheme, there are also cabins for each Watch so you don’t have to sleep on the ground every night.

This is only a brief description of the Outward Bound experience, there are many more things I have not covered so if you do go, there will still be an element of mystery. Outward Bound is a full-on experience but it is definitely worth it, if you are able to be privileged enough to attend a course, make the most of it, it will be some of the best times of your life.

Scott Greenfield's attendance on the Outward Bound course was partially funded by the P.T.S.A after he applied to them for assistance.