Aged 16-26? You're closer to a scholarship than you think! APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP →

 

 

TEEN COURSES

Find courage, determination, and instant life-long friends on our adventure packed courses for teens.

Step out of your comfort zone. Come back knowing what you're made of.

Outward Bound has been putting young New Zealanders through their paces for over 60 years - sailing, hiking, problem-solving, and figuring out what they're actually capable of - usually a lot more than they thought.

Our courses aren't school camp, and they're not a bootcamp either (promise). They're a hands-on, outdoors, off-the-grid experience where you'll paddle, tramp, problem-solve and reflect your way through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Marlborough Sounds, alongside a crew of other 16–18 year olds who you'll likely stay in touch with long after.

No phones and no algorithm telling them who to be. Just you, your team, and a life-changing adventure that you'll remember for the rest of your life.

"I cannot express how much this course has done for me; it has helped me grow mentally and most of all physically. It has given me the self-motivation to reach for higher goals and the will to look after my physical health a lot more than I did before this course."

Taipua (Three-Week Course for 16-18)

“At first, I didn’t want to come here, and now I’ve learned so many things I can do. I’ll be saying, “I can’t do it” when I actually can do it. I learned I can do things on my own but just need someone to support me. I’m so grateful for that and I’m glad I came here.”

Lufo (Three-Week Course for Teens, 2024)

“I have made lifelong friends within my watch and it has taught me so many valuable skills that I intend to implement in my daily life. This course has made such a difference for me in focusing on a more positive mindset and proving to myself that I can do things as well, like overcoming fears.”

Phoebe (Three-Week Course for Teens, 2024)

“This course caused me to be engaged in so many ways I never thought I would be able to. My abilities and capabilities have expanded a lot. Before starting this course, I was hoping for a change within myself and to test my limits. Throughout this course, I definitely grew mentally and physically as a person.”

Ayesha (Three-Week Course for Teens, 2024)

“Thank you for the opportunity to broaden my horizons both socially and emotionally. I’ve met so many amazing people - both those who are like-minded and those who differ from me. I’ve grown so much from this experience. The connections I’ve made with others, myself and nature are far more valuable to me than the rugby tour I would have otherwise been on.”

Kaleb (Three-Week Course for Teens, 2024)

“It’s crazy that in just a short amount of time, I've learned so much about myself and where I want to go. I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is to not take anything for granted and appreciate the little things in life, even if that's being around family or hot showers.”

Tamarah (Three-Week Course for Teens, 2024)

What you'll actually walk away with.

Every activity on this course is designed to build real-world skills and attitudes that you can carry into school, study and life beyond.

This course helps you develop independence, focus and leadership qualities to make the most of your final school years, as well as approach new challenges with confidence and self-belief.

You'll learn to stay calm under pressure, work with others through uncertainty and reflect on what really matters to them.

At a time when big decisions and change are starting to take shape, the clarity, confidence and resilience you gain will help you step into your future with purpose.

These are the kinds of experiences and skills that prepare you for real life beyond school, and give you an edge that stands out to universities and employers.

Key outcomes include:

  • Greater self-belief and recognition of your own capabilities

  • Stronger social skills and lasting friendships

  • More confidence in group situations and better communication skills

  • A more positive mindset to take on new challenges

  • Increased resilience and determination

  • A calmer attitude and approach when under pressure

  • Appreciation of diversity and the value of others around you

  • A better ability to deal with change and uncertainty

  • Experience leading, influencing and working as part of a team

  • A clearer sense of direction and what matters most to you

  • The confidence to back yourself in new and unfamiliar situations

Three-Week Course

Our classic course. The full experience.

Our three-week course is the full Outward Bound experience. More time, more challenge, more chance to discover what you're capable of. You won't know exactly what's coming. That's part of it.

START ENROLMENT

One-Week Course

A short course. A big impact.

Our one-week course for teens has the same spirit as the classic, but condensed. There's enough time to genuinely challenge yourself and come back different, without stepping too far from school or home.

START ENROLMENT

Referred by your school? You're eligible for a 15% Student Scholarship.