The week-long Outward Bound residential programme is a potentially life-changing experience that is offered to young people across the region who might not otherwise have access to this type of exceptional opportunity. Along with Avon Outward Bound, SMV is proud to have been the main sponsor for the second year running.
This year, a total of 96 students from seven academies took part in two separate week-long visits during March, representing Hans Price Academy, Broadoak and Winterstoke Hundred in Weston Super Mare, and Fairfield Highschool, Merchants’ Academy, Montpelier High School and Bridge Learning Campus, all in Bristol.
The residential centre in Aberdovey is run by the Outward Bound Trust, an educational charity that inspires young people to take on adventures, overcome challenges and develop confidence and self-belief, preparing them to embrace all the opportunities that life will offer them.
During the week, students faced a range of challenges including rock climbing, abseiling, river walks, hiking, camping, rope balancing and even jumping into the sea from a speed boat. In tackling every task head-on, each young person demonstrated bravery, resilience, determination and teamwork.
Bob Jennings, Chair of Avon Outward Bound, and His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ, drove to Aberdovey during the second residential to spend the day with students. Mrs Golding described the visit as “illuminating and encouraging”. She praised the quality of the facilities and the enthusiasm of the staff, noting that “the students were clearly enjoying themselves” which she said, “underlines the tremendous benefits of the programme to both the students and teachers involved”.
Feedback from students highlighted the real impact of the Outward Bound experience:
“I’ve never been away from home overnight but it’s the best experience and I know my mum will be so proud of me.” Michael, age 14
“I didn’t realise how much I enjoy being outdoors.” Kai, age 14
“At first I didn’t want to do the hike, but I’m so happy I achieved the end goal.” Roxy, age 14
“It’s great to learn skills I’ve never had the chance to before such as how to pitch a tent.” Tyler, age 14
“I was worried the hike was going to be too hard for me. It was challenging and there were times I thought I couldn’t make it, but my friends really helped me to get through it and I’m so proud of myself.” Melissa, age 14
“The highlight of the trip for me was the hike because I’d never done anything like that before and because it was physically challenging.” Sammy, age 15
“I’m proud that I tried new experiences, such as camping. I even enjoyed eating the ‘military food’!” Ethan, age 15
“I’d encourage other students to take part in the Outward Bound course because it helps develop leadership and teamwork skills, as well as encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone.”
“The highlight of the trip for me were all of the water activities, especially the canoeing.”
“I was proud to try new experiences such as hiking because this was out of my comfort zone as I had never hiked so far in such a different environment.”
“I would encourage other people to do it as you experience lots of new and different things and you get to know people better and work as a team.”
“I found the residential trip really rewarding.”
There is no doubt that the Outward Bound experience can increase confidence and expand horizons, taking young people out of their comfort zones, and sparking new interests and ambitions. With the intention of helping to ensure that the spark continues to grow, several members of SMV are now taking part in a bespoke mentoring programme with students from Merchants’ Academy, building on their experience of Outward Bound, and providing encouragement and advice to help them achieve their goals.
