Now’s the day, now’s the hour

When Rabbie Burns wrote those immortal words, "Now’s the day, and now’s the hour," he captured a sense of urgency and possibility - qualities that feel especially relevant as we reflect on the progress of the Residential Outdoor Education Bill in Scotland.

At Outward Bound, we wholeheartedly support this Bill. It represents a commitment to something we’ve championed for decades: ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to benefit from a transformative outdoor residential experience.

"Anything is possible when we put young people at the heart of our ambitions."

We know these experiences change lives. Our own research through our Social Impact Report confirms it. Teachers and parents tell us about the difference it makes. Young people share their stories of resilience, confidence, and teamwork built on the side of a mountain or around a campfire. And our alumni, whether they attended last year or fifty years ago, tell us those lessons have stayed with them for life.

This Bill is good for young people, good for schools, and good for Scotland

It’s about equity of access. It’s about giving every child the chance to discover what they’re capable of. And it’s about strengthening communities by equipping the next generation with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

We’re proud to have worked alongside other outdoor providers, Liz Smith MSP, the Scottish Government, and so many others who have helped bring the Bill to its current stage. This collaboration has been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together when we share a vision of what’s possible for young people.

Thanks to the hard work of the Children's and Young People’s Committee for their careful consideration and leadership we can now look forward to this Bill being debated on Thursday 27 March 2025. If passed, it will be a bold step towards ensuring that every young person in Scotland, regardless of circumstance, has access to the life-changing opportunities that only an outdoor residential can provide.

It’s also worth recognising that Scotland’s leadership in this area is inspiring similar movements elsewhere in the UK. The progress of this Bill has already sparked interest in Westminster and the Senedd in Wales, encouraging them to explore how outdoor learning can play a more central role in the lives of young people across Great Britain.

Burns’ words remind us that moments of opportunity like this must be seized. Now’s the day, now’s the hour for Scotland to lead the way and demonstrate that anything is possible when we put young people at the heart of our ambitions.

Let’s ensure this dream becomes a reality!

Back the campaign

• Read the content of the Bill.
• Find and write to your MSP.