Everything you need to get ready for your course
Whether you’re organising the programme or coming along as part of your role, this Help Centre is here to support you.
From kit lists to travel tips, you’ll find all the practical information you need to prepare. There’s guidance on what to expect when you arrive, how to prepare your group, and what we do to ensure every young person is safe, supported and included.
This Help Centre is designed for employers, apprentices, and graduates. Because at Outward Bound, outdoor learning starts before you even leave the classroom.
Before you arrive
We’ll provide you with walking boots, waterproofs, a rucksack, a roll mat, and a sleeping bag (where appropriate), so don’t worry about bringing these. You can bring your own kit if you have it, but most people prefer to borrow ours.
All you need to bring is personal clothing and footwear, including things to wear during the evening, when you're not taking part in activities.
We have kit to support different religious and cultural needs - including swim caps, water niqabs, water hijabs and outdoor prayer mats. Let us know in advance and we’ll make sure the centre you’re going to has what you need. If you already have your own kit items, please bring them with you.
We advise leaving any valuable items behind. We can give you access to a safety deposit box, and if you’re travelling from abroad, please keep your passport and important travel documents there.
For more information about the centre you'll be visiting head to our centre pages.
Participant information forms
Before you arrive, you'll need to fill in our Participant Information Form (PIF). This will ensure we are able to cater for all of your needs while you're on the course.
During your course
Your course will combine outdoor adventure with focused learning sessions. You’ll take part in activities like hill walking, water-based challenges and team tasks that push you to step outside your comfort zone. Alongside the practical challenges, you’ll work with your instructor and peers to reflect on your experiences, build self-awareness and develop key skills for life and work. It’s a purposeful mix of doing and thinking, designed to help you grow your confidence, resilience and leadership potential.
More specific questions
What are the rooms like?
Rooms vary in size, with single beds and en-suites.
Are there charging points in the dorm rooms?
Yes, there are plug sockets in dorm rooms and common areas.
Will my dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes. Let us know in your Participant Information Form and our catering team will make sure your needs are met. This includes allergies, vegan, vegetarian, Halal and other requirements.
What activities will I be doing?
Depending on your course and the weather, activities may include expeditions, gorge walking, high ropes, rock climbing, hill walking, canoeing, sailing, kayaking, raft building, and more.
Do I have to do every activity?
Instructors encourage you to try everything but will not ask you to do anything unsafe or beyond your ability.
What fitness level do I need?
You’ll get the most out of your course if you have a reasonable level of fitness, but enthusiasm is just as important. We offer guidance on how to prepare in advance.
Will I get wet?
Yes, some activities involve water. Your instructor will advise on what to wear.
Where will I sleep whilst on expedition?
You’ll camp in tents provided by us, with full support from your instructor.
How do I take care of personal hygiene on an expedition?
Instructors will advise you. You’ll go back to basics, but we provide the right equipment to manage hygiene safely and comfortably.
What do I do if I need to go to the toilet outdoors?
Instructors will guide you on how to manage toileting when away from the centre.
What will I be eating whilst on expedition?
You’ll be given tasty ration packs that provide all the energy you need for outdoor activities.
What if I start my period?
You can still take part in all activities. Sanitary products are available at the centre and on expeditions. Instructors carry spare products and can help if needed.
Are there any rules to be aware of?
Yes, all participants follow The Outward Bound Way.
Is there anything I am not allowed to bring?
Aerosols and penknives are not allowed for safety reasons.