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Our Educational Approach

By navigating outdoor challenges in supportive environments, our students find courage, compassion, and connection that lasts a lifetime.

In the image, two people are cooking outdoors. One person, wearing a blue shirt and a hat, is stirring a large pot on a gas stove. The other person, with long curly hair and a beard, is watching. They appear to be camping, with a river and rocky cliffs in the background. A griddle sits next to the stove, and the overall scene suggests they are preparing a meal in a natural setting.
Two hikers are helping each other climb a rocky mountain. The hiker on the left is wearing a blue jacket and a large backpack, and is reaching out to help the hiker on the right. The hiker on the right is also wearing a large backpack. The sky is blue and there are some clouds in the distance. The mountain is covered in rocks and there is some vegetation in the background.
Two people, likely a parent and child, are walking on a path near a river or lake. Both are wearing life jackets, suggesting they may have been rafting or boating. The child is carrying a blue bag, and the adult is wearing a hat. The background shows trees and what appears to be a rocky landscape. They seem to be enjoying a day outdoors, possibly after a water activity.
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Social and Emotional Learning

We’ve combined our 60+ years of experience facilitating life-changing adventures with the latest research on social-emotional development to create The Domains of Thriving (DOT) educational framework. The DOT highlights the four key areas of leadership and character development that are impacted on every Outward Bound course: Courage, Belonging, Reflection, and Physical Engagement. 

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The Building Blocks of Every Outward Bound Adventure

Challenge and Adventure

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Rugged peaks and canyons provide students with the opportunity to be challenged physically and mentally. Students learn to work as a crew to overcome adversity. Together, they discover that they are stronger than they know. 

Supportive Environment

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Physical and emotional safety is foundational to personal growth. Our instructors create a caring and inclusive group culture where everyone is encouraged to grow. Students learn to care for themselves and each other.  

Learning to Lead

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Students learn to thrive as a group in the backcountry. By the end of course, they are encouraged to be their own leaders, working together to plan their route, navigate, and set up camp.  

Reflection and Transference

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Group discussions and debriefs are a daily part of course. Students reflect on their experiences, set goals for life at home, and connect with their peers in a safe and authentic environment.  

Success and Failure

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Students are empowered to define success for themselves. They set personal and group goals and find learning opportunities from both their achievements and failures. 

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Student Outcomes

Our students learn that they are strong – both physically and mentally. They gain confidence to lead and serve in their communities. They learn the power of friendships founded upon compassion, empathy, and respect.

We measure student outcomes through an independently validated survey. Nearly every student is surveyed at the end of their adventure.

Our Impact

Belonging

Students form deep connections founded upon respect, inclusion, and compassion.

“Not only did I grow by myself, but I grew along with my group. I never imagined getting this close with other teens and Instructors in just 7 days.” – Karen, 15

Courage

Students develop the confidence to speak up for themselves and persevere through challenges.

88% of students reported: “I have gained the confidence to try new things.”

Physical Engagement

Students develop awareness and confidence in their bodies.

“I have summitted, camped, and walked many miles with 30 pounds on my back and now I can achieve anything.” – Finley, 13

Reflection

Students learn self-awareness and practice empathy towards others.

91% of students reported: “I am excited to keep learning about myself and others.”

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Contact us to Plan Your Learning Journey

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Practice Courage, Find Confidence.
THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE. THERE'S A BREAKTHROUGH OUT HERE.
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