Harvey wins the Outward Bound Award

On a warm July morning at The Kingsbrook School in Aylesbury, something special happened

In front of classmates, teachers, and a record-breaking adventurer, 13-year-old Harvey became the first ever recipient of The Outward Bound Award, a new recognition created to celebrate young people who show extraordinary courage, kindness and growth on one of our courses.

It was a moment charged with emotion. Not just because of the applause or the surprise presentation, but because behind the certificate and smiles is a powerful story of perseverance, potential and quiet leadership.

A journey worth telling

Harvey’s story began months earlier, when he joined an Outward Bound course at Loch Eil in the Scottish Highlands. At the time, life wasn’t easy. He’d recently entered a period of residential care — a big change that meant he was living over 200 miles away from his school.

But despite the upheaval, Harvey was determined not to miss the trip.

So his teachers made it happen. They picked him up along the way and brought him north, where he joined his classmates on a week of outdoor adventure, challenge, and discovery.

At first, Harvey was nervous. But something clicked. By the second day, he was helping others pitch tents, offering his jacket to teammates who were cold, and cheering up his group when morale dipped. It wasn’t loud or showy. Just quiet, genuine care.

He completely stepped up. He showed real compassion, leadership and strength. What he did that week was remarkable - especially when you know what he’s come through.

His instructor, Luke, saw the same thing: a young man finding confidence not just in himself, but in the people around him.

A celebration with purpose

Fast forward to July, and we were back at Harvey’s school — this time with an audience and a surprise.

The award was presented by Alex Staniforth, motivational speaker and record-breaking adventurer, who recently summited all 446 mountains in England and Wales. Alex spoke powerfully about overcoming adversity and shared his own story of struggle, resilience and adventure.

It struck a chord. Harvey received not only national recognition, but also a £300 voucher kindly donated by Ellis Brigham to fuel his next adventure and left with a room full of people inspired by his story.

The Outward Bound Award

This year was a pilot. We asked schools, staff and parents to nominate young people who had shown something special during their course with us. We received over 100 nominations - each one heartfelt, humbling, and a reminder of why we do what we do.

Choosing a winner wasn’t easy. But Harvey’s story, and the impact he’s had on those around him, felt emblematic of what Outward Bound is truly about.

This award isn’t just about achievement. It’s about recognising the unseen moments - the quiet courage, the small acts of leadership, the personal breakthroughs that often go unnoticed.

What's next?

We’ll be bringing The Outward Bound Award back for 2026, building on what we’ve learned and aiming to celebrate even more incredible young people. For now, our huge thanks go to everyone who nominated, supported, or shared a story with us.

And to Harvey, thank you for showing what’s possible.