FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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!
Most dorm rooms have en-suite facilities, some may have a shower room just down the corridor.
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.
Yes, there is usually at least one plug socket in the dorm, with some in the common areas.
Yes, you can bring your phone but during the day whilst out on activities we ask that phones are left at the centre. This helps everyone connect with nature, concentrate safely and engage fully with everyone. During the evening when back at the centre you are free to use your phone. Prior to the next activity day, phones will be collected in, and stored in a safe place.
If a young person’s phone disrupts the course or emotional harm to others, or themselves, Outward Bound may take a phone away from a young person. The parent/guardian will be informed if this happens.
Due to the remote nature of the 19-Day Pinnacle course, the above may differ. Staff and young people will agree to an approach that reflects the spirit of phone use on other courses, but with different practical implications. Decisions on phone use made with young people will be communicated with parents/guardians at the start of the course. This decision will ensure that young people can make regular contact home.
We recommend you leave any valuables such as jewellery, iPods and tablets etc at home. However, if you really can’t live without them, you will have access to a safety deposit box at the centre.
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.
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
Our shops don’t sell sweets or fizzy drinks. However, you can buy juice, crisps and cereal bars. It will also have a selection of souvenirs such as pens, hats, jumpers, etc., and also some emergency items like toothbrushes or soap. The shop will usually be open every evening during your free time.
All our centres have a small shop (except Ogwen Cottage but there is a local shop close-by), which sells snacks, souvenirs and clothing. How much you need will depend on the length of time you're with us, but we recommend about £15. We don't accept card.
If you are coming on a Summer Adventure, you'll need at least £10 for a refundable deposit on any kit you borrow. Apart from that, your summer adventure is all-inclusive, so you don't need to bring any extra spending money.
If you are joining our 5 Day Basecamp or 7-day Ridge Adventure, we don't offer a laundry service, except in emergencies.
If you are joining our 14 Day Summit Adventure, there is an opportunity for laundry at each centre. There will be a small charge of approx. £2.50.
If you are joining our 19 Day Pinnacle Adventure, as you aren't based at a centre, laundry opportunities are limited. However, there will be one or two washes of clothes available with a small charge of approx. £2.50.
So that all participants and groups can operate effectively and in harmony we have a simple set of house rules, called our Community Code.