For ages 18+ Duration 8 days
Take your independence to the next level with an adapted 8 day Horizons course, adapted for those with intellectual disabilities.
You’ll be placed in a team of 12 others with a range of intellectual disabilities, working together as a team and supporting one another to overcome the week’s challenges.
From sailing to high ropes, you’ll try all sorts of new activities, ensuring you return home with the motivation to try out new experiences and test your boundaries.
Horizons is an adapted course, so whilst you’ll experience all the adventure of an Outward Bound course, there will be more rest breaks and more support available from three Outward Bound instructors and two support workers.
Horizons is ideal for those aged 18+ with an intellectual disability. Past participants have included those with Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, and Williams Syndrome. See our FAQs for conditions on course entry.
Register your interest in becoming a support worker on the Horizons course.
Horizons has given my daughter such a valuable growth in achievement, self-esteem and belief in her abilities.
When you come to Outward Bound, there are items that you will need to bring with you and items that we will supply. As for the things that you need to bring - we encourage you to borrow as many items as you can, or buy second hand!
Check out our course gear list for a full run down and some hot tips on what to bring and what not to.
Kia ora, I grew up in Upper Hutt, Wellington, swimming in the Hutt River and collecting blackberries. After study in New Zealand, some overseas adventures and raising 3 children, I was lucky enough to find a role with Outward Bound New Zealand.
I worked in the fundraising team for 2 years before more recently (in what I think is the best job at OB) moving to the role of Adapted Course Manager.
To me Outward Bound is all about empowering people, allowing individuals to find their own voice and connect with our beautiful environment. I love that I can be the starting point for someone’s Outward Bound journey.
You can get in touch with Caroline on email: ccampbell@outwardbound.co.nz
or phone (04) 282 1090.
Horizons can cater for a range of intellectual disabilities. It’s best to call us so we can make sure the course is right for you.
All participants should be able to independently manage their personal care and medication. You should be able to communicate clearly and understand safety instructions. Horizons participants must be able to attend without a carer and have experience of spending time away from home.
You will need to be able to take part in a full day of activities, including up to a full day of walking, and be comfortable in and around the water.
The days can be quite busy at Outward Bound as there is a lot to fit in. You will start early each morning with some exercise and a dip in the water before heading off for the day's activities. There will be rest breaks on this course, and life jackets are available at all times if you want one.
The course will be run by 2 of our expert Outward Bound instructors who are there to make sure the environment is as safe and supportive as possible. There will also be 2 support workers who have completed their own Outward Bound course in the past who are there to help you out. Please be aware that Outward Bound is not a respite care facility.
There is full funding available for Work and Income clients, which includes travel to and from the course. If you're not a WINZ client, get in touch - we can help you raise your course fee!
Check out the achievements of our Horizons participants in pictures.
See the photos now