FAQS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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How do I complete my Participant Information form?

We've set up this guide to help: Completing your Participant Information form

Can I pay with childcare vouchers?

Yes, we can accept childcare vouchers as payment for any of our summer adventures at our Ullswater and Howtown centres, which are registered with OFSTED’s Voluntary Childcare Register. However, we can only accept the vouchers for the remaining balance after the £150 deposit has been paid.

If you need it, our unique reference number is EY443840.

Can I do my DofE Award with Outward Bound?

Some sections of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme can be completed as part of your Outward Bound course. For more info check out our DofE Award page.

What are the dorm rooms like and who will I be sharing with?

The dorms will be of different sizes and will mostly have bunk beds in them, and some are ensuite. Depending on the course, either your school or Outward Bound will create a plan of who will share a room. This will depend on how many participants there are, etc. But whoever you will be sharing with – being roommates is always a good way to get to know new people!

Where do I shower?

Most dorm rooms have en-suite facilities, some may have a shower room just down the corridor.

Do I need to bring toiletries and a towel?

Yes, bring enough for your stay. See our kit list so you don't forget anything! You can download our kit list here.

For safety reasons, aerosols are forbidden.

What if I start my period?

Don't worry! You can still take part in every activity.

Pads and tampons are available from the dispenser in the shared toilets at the centre. You can also get them from the Logistics Hub at any time. Your instructor will always be carrying spare products when you are away from the centre. If you are experiencing period pains, you can also ask for painkillers.

If you go swimming and gorge walking, you can wear a tampon or a sanitary pad in the water. A sanitary pad will get wet and that's okay. You can change it as normal afterwards.

If you go on expedition and camping, spare sanitary pads will be in the toileting tube. If you'd prefer to carry your items, you can stock up before leaving.

Is there charging points in the dorm rooms?

Yes, there is usually at least one plug socket in the dorm, with some in the common areas.

Can I bring my mobile phone, valuables and is there internet access?

Yes, you can bring your phone, but during the day, whilst out on activities, we ask that phones are left at the centre. Access to the internet depends on the centre and your network provider.

What can we do in our free time in the evenings?

Most of our centres have a pool table and a football table. You can also do some sports activities like basketball and football. There is a selection of board games available from the shop, and you can watch films in the social lounge. Just ask your duty instructor.

What time will I have to get up at? Will we have any free time?

There is always plenty to do at Outward Bound. We like to start the day bright and early to fit it all into the day. Below is a sample outline of what a typical day at Outward Bound is like:

7am: Wake up
7.30-9am: Breakfast
9am-5pm: Activity time with your instructor
5pm-7pm: Dinner and free time
7pm-8:30pm: Activity time with your instructor
8:30pm-10:30pm: Free time
10:30pm: To dorms
11pm: Lights out