The Outward Bound Way

A GOOD PLACE FOR EVERYONE

You’ll be living and mixing with other young people. That’s one of the most rewarding parts of being here. It’s where you build friendships, try new things and learn from others.

But for it to work, we all need to treat each other with respect.

That means no bullying, no comments or behaviour that makes others feel uncomfortable, and no actions that put anyone at risk. We don’t tolerate anything that gets in the way of someone else’s experience.

We’ve worked with thousands of young people over the years, and serious issues are rare. But if something ever doesn’t feel right, if you’re upset, worried, or unsure about something, please speak to your instructor or any other staff member. We’re here to help.

If someone’s behaviour affects others or puts themselves or the group at risk, we’ll refer to our participant support scheme to manage the situation and keep everyone safe.

SAFE SPACES, GREAT EXPERIENCES

At Outward Bound, we want everyone to have the best possible experience. That means making sure no one feels left out, and that everyone feels safe, supported and able to be themselves.

Before you get here, you and your parent or carer will fill out a Participant Information Form. That’s so we can understand what support you might need and make sure you’re set up for a good experience.

We also ask that you read this Community Code. It’s here to help you understand how things work at Outward Bound - and how we all help make it a welcoming, respectful place to be yourself.

Phones and screens

We know your phone matters. But being here means switching off for a bit and focusing on what’s around you. So, when you arrive, we’ll ask you to hand in your phone and any other devices. You’ll get them back at set times.

You won’t be able to use your phone during activities. If a device is used in a way that’s unsafe, unkind or breaks trust - like sharing inappropriate content or bullying - it could mean leaving the course early. We also can’t take responsibility for lost or damaged devices, so make sure you’re covered.

If your parent or guardian needs to contact you at any point, they can ring the centre for an update, or to pass on a message.

Smoking, vaping and alcohol

If you’re over 16, you can smoke or vape - but only in the places where it’s allowed. You can’t smoke indoors or during activities.

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed. They’re dangerous in the outdoors and don’t belong on a course like this. If you’re found under the influence, you’ll have to go home. No second chances.

Relationships and group behaviour

We don’t allow sexual behaviour on our courses. We also ask that no one acts in a way that leaves others out and makes others feel excluded. Everyone should feel part of the team. That’s how you get the most out of the course - and help others do the same.

Don't bring these

To keep things safe, there are some things you can’t bring with you. Make sure you don't bring:

• Alcohol or illegal drugs
• Medication you haven’t told us about or handed in
• Anything dangerous like gas canisters, glue or ‘legal highs’
• Weapons or sharp tools like penknives
• Lighters, matches or anything to start a fire
• Inappropriate or explicit material
• Cigarettes, vapes or e-cigarettes (unless agreed if you’re over 16)

Taking responsibility

You’ll be expected to look after yourself while you’re here. That means showering, sorting your kit and taking care of your stuff. You’ll stay in a same-sex dorm with a few others and be part of a group of up to 12 people, led by your instructor.

This is your team. You’ll do a lot together, and you’ll learn a lot from each other too.

Safety checks

If staff believe someone has something they shouldn’t, they may need to check their bag or belongings. If possible, we’ll ask first, but sometimes, we’ll need to act quickly to keep everyone safe.

If something is found, it will be taken and kept securely. We will always explain what’s happening and why.

IF THINGS GO WRONG

If something goes against the Community Code, we’ll always try to talk things through and help you get back on track.

But if your behaviour puts yourself or others at risk or breaks the trust needed to be part of the group, we’ll take it seriously.

Here’s how we manage behaviour issues if they come up:

Stage 1: A clear warning

You’ll receive a formal warning from your Instructor or Course Director. This warning is recorded at Outward Bound but not shared outside the centre at this point. It’s a chance to reset and move forward.

Stage 2: Final warning

If things don’t improve, you’ll get a final written warning from the Course Director or a senior manager. This will also be shared with your parent, guardian, sponsor or employer. We’ll send them an email explaining what’s happened and offering a chance to talk about things on a call.

Stage 3: Leaving the course

You may be withdrawn from your course if the situation still doesn’t improve or if the behaviour is serious enough. Your parent, guardian, sponsor or employer will be contacted by phone and email, and we’ll arrange an online meeting where possible.

You’ll need to leave the centre straight away. Outward Bound isn’t responsible for how you get home, so you must have a parent or guardian who can be contacted 24/7 while you’re on your course and can collect you from the centre at any time.

If the behaviour involves anything illegal or suspected of being illegal, we’ll call the police straight away and inform your parent, guardian, sponsor, or employer.