Helen Skelton joins Outward Bound Award judging panel

There’s something powerful about recognising a young person at the right moment.

Not for being the loudest or the best - but for showing courage and stepping forward. For discovering, sometimes quietly, that they’re capable of more than they thought.

That’s exactly what The Outward Bound Award is about, and this year, we've just taken an exciting step forward. We’re really pleased to share that Helen Skelton has joined us as a judge for the 2026 award.

An adventurer, broadcaster and parent, Helen brings a deep understanding of what young people gain when they step outside their comfort zone and into something new.

I’ve seen first-hand how powerful getting young people outdoors can be. It builds confidence, resilience and a real sense of what they’re capable of. The Outward Bound Award is about recognising those moments where something clicks, and a young person starts to believe in themselves. I’m really looking forward to reading the nominations and celebrating those stories.

We can't wait to work with her on selecting our winner.

A little more time to share the stories that matter

With Helen now joining the judging panel and so many inspiring stories already coming through, we’re extending our nomination period by one week to give more people the chance to take part.

You now have until Sunday, 12 April 2026 to nominate a young person.

Because we know how these things work. There’s often someone who comes to mind… and then life gets busy.

This is your reminder.

Who should you nominate?

The award is open to any young person who has shown courage, growth or kindness through challenge and adventure over the past year (check out our full FAQs on eligibility).

They might be:

• A student who found their confidence
• An apprentice who stepped up
• Someone who supported others when it mattered most
• A young person who simply kept going

They don’t need to have been on an Outward Bound course.

If their story reflects what we believe in, that anything is possible when young people are given the chance to try, then they belong here.

What happens next?

This year, we’ll recognise:

• Seven regional winners across England, Scotland and Wales
• One national winner, selected from those finalists

Winners will receive recognition, outdoor kit vouchers, and for the national winner, a guest speaker visit to their school, college or workplace, creating a moment that can inspire others too.

Five minutes that could make a difference

Nominating takes around five minutes, but the impact can last much longer.

Because sometimes, being seen is what helps a young person realise what they’re capable of.