16-21 (at school) Duration 6 days
Youth Horizons is a 6-day course suitable for people at school with an intellectual disability.
There are 12 participants, 3 Outward Bound instructors and 2 support workers on each course. All of the course activities are adapted as needed to cater to the abilities of each group.
I enjoyed the high ropes along with the challenges. I enjoyed the swimming in the sea and being on the ship. I loved the food!!
Youth Horizons participant - Jan 2022
Our daughter came back so confident and buzzing with positive energy. I am sure she has matured years over this week.
Parent of participant - 2022
You’ll experience all the adventure of an Outward Bound course, with more rest breaks and more support available from three Outward Bound instructors and two support workers.
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.
Youth Horizons is ideal for those at high school/college with an intellectual disability. Past participants have included those with Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, and Williams Syndrome. See our FAQs below for conditions on course participation.
Are you completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award? Select Outward Bound courses can be used to complete your Adventurous Journey section and/or Residential section. Find more information here.
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.
All participants must be:
Leonie King (she/her) - Hoa Kanorau | Diversity & Inclusion Partner
Kia ora, I have spent my adult life providing opportunities for people to discover their potential through sharing experiences in the outdoors. After study in New Zealand, some overseas adventures and raising three children, I was lucky enough to join the team at Outward Bound New Zealand.
To me Outward Bound is all about empowering people, allowing individuals to find their own voice, connect with our beautiful environment and connect with others. I love that I can be the starting point for someone’s Outward Bound journey.
Stef Waldon-Gibbons (she/her) - Kaimātai Whakauru | Enrolments Specialist
Kia ora, Being outside in nature is my happy place and have spent most of my life tramping, kayaking, rock climbing and teaching others in the outdoor environment. I attended an Outward Bound course as a young person and I found the experience defining for me in my direction in life. I was inspired to study and work in various outdoor instructing roles before beginning my role as Kaiako – Outward Bound Instructor in Anakiwa where I worked for over 5 years.
Now in my role as an enrolment specialist for adapted courses, I have the privilege of supporting and empowering people in their journey to attending their own Outward Bound course. Having experienced all sides of the Outward Bound journey, I hope to help individuals feel ready and supported to take up the amazing experience and challenge their course will bring.
Contact Leonie and Stef via adapted@outwardbound.co.nz
Leonie King
Stef Waldon-Gibbons
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.
Horizons can cater to people with a range of intellectual disabilities, including some mental health conditions and neurodiversity. 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.