School Programs

All our programs are grounded in a curriculum that promotes social-emotional learning, environmental leadership, and personal resilience. We encourage educators or group leaders to share specific learning goals so we can tailor your OBC expedition accordingly. Examples of learning outcomes include:

Self-Care in the Wild
During a group expedition, participants learn essential wilderness survival skills, such as how to dress in layers to stay warm and dry, and how to stay nourished and hydrated. They also develop strategies to manage their energy, maintain comfort, and advocate for their needs when challenges arise.

Community and Interpersonal Skills

In a shared group setting, participants learn how to care for themselves and support others. They build leadership and communication skills, explore emotional awareness, and practice conflict resolution. These experiences help strengthen independence, self-reliance, and a sense of belonging within a team.

In every Outward Bound program, participants learn through hands-on experience. They’re challenged both individually and as team members, all within an inclusive and supportive environment. While no one is ever forced to do anything they’re uncomfortable with, instructors encourage participants to take small, manageable steps toward new experiences and personal growth.

As the course progresses, responsibility gradually shifts from the instructors to the participants, a process known as “transference.” This is when the group’s technical and decision-making skills begin to grow and take root. Instructors also help bridge the gap between what participants learn during the course and how those skills can be applied to everyday life at home, at school, and in the broader community.

Outward Bound Canada provides all the technical gear you’ll need, including canoes, kayaks, paddles, life jackets/PFDs, tents, first-aid equipment, sleeping pads, cooking and eating utensils, stoves, helmets, ropes, harnesses, tarps, and tripping packs appropriate for your course.

Participants are only responsible for bringing their own personal clothing, footwear, and a headlamp. You can pack everything in regular travel luggage. We’ll provide a detailed Clothing List to guide your packing.

We ask participants to do their best to bring their own clothing, as it’s typically more comfortable to wear your own gear. If you have trouble finding certain items, we’re happy to help with alternatives. We also have a supply of clothing and gear that participants can borrow if needed.

Before the expedition begins, instructors will conduct a “Duffle Shuffle” to make sure everyone is properly equipped for the journey.

Here are some key steps you can take to prepare your students for an impactful OBC experience:

• Understand the program: Familiarize yourself with Outward Bound’s philosophy and approach. This will help you explain the program clearly and set realistic expectations.
• Open communication: Talk honestly with your students about what to expect. Share our website and videos to give them a visual overview. Listen to their questions and address any concerns.
• Ease anxieties: Acknowledge that some students may feel nervous about the challenges ahead. Reassure them that experienced instructors will support and guide them throughout.
• We’re here to help: Our Program Managers and Admissions team are available to assist with presentations, paperwork, or any questions you or your students may have.
• Pre-program activities: Spend time outdoors with your students before the course to help them feel comfortable in nature and build excitement for their adventure.
• Academic alignment: Whenever possible, connect classroom lessons to the skills and values your students will gain during their Outward Bound experience to create a sense of continuity and enhance their learning outcomes.
• Early paperwork submission: Encourage students to complete and submit all required forms, including medical history, well ahead of time to ensure a smooth registration process.
• Inclusion: While we strive to be inclusive, some physical limitations may require accommodations. Please contact us in advance to discuss any individual needs.

Following these steps will create a positive, informed environment that sets your students up for a successful and transformative Outward Bound experience.

Outward Bound Canada offers participants a powerful and challenging experience where success is directly linked to their motivation and commitment to the course.

We expect all students to participate voluntarily, to be willing to do their best and try new activities, to work as part of a group, and to follow instructions. Participants who put themselves or others at risk through misconduct or unsafe practices may be asked to leave the course.

Students should note that possession and/or use of non-prescription drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and non-prescription cannabis products or illegal substances during the course is prohibited and will result in early departure from the course without refund. Participants may also be asked to leave the course if they misuse prescribed medication.

Exclusive and intimate relationships between participants (regardless of age) are not permitted due to the emotional and social impact on individuals and the group, as well as our commitment to creating a supportive learning community.

Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated at Outward Bound Canada. Harassment is any behaviour that threatens, humiliates, intimidates or hurts another person. This includes harassment based on gender, age, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

These policies will be explained to all students at the beginning of their course.

OBC’s highly trained professional instructors ensure that all activities adhere to the strict guidelines we have developed over more than 50 years of working in the wilderness and that relevant provincial regulations are followed. We mitigate risk wherever possible. To ensure that everyone can participate and assess risks and opportunities, we conduct a briefing before each activity.

Our methods and practices are regularly monitored and reviewed by a committee made up of senior Outward Bound staff from schools across North America, as well as independent experts.In summary, while there is always some level of risk, you are in great hands with OBC. Check out our Risk Management page for more information.

Physical challenge is one of the many tools Outward Bound Canada uses to help students discover their personal potential. Course activities can be physically demanding for part or all of the day, depending on the program and location (e.g., urban frontcountry vs. wilderness backcountry).

Most school and group programs are developed in collaboration with teachers and group leaders to ensure they are physically accessible for all participants. Individual challenges are addressed through tailored modifications built into the program.

Please encourage students to complete their Confidential Medical History form thoroughly and honestly so we can properly prepare to support them.

If a student is unsure about their ability to participate, please contact us. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, we aim to support and manage risk for all participants.

Outward Bound instructors are skilled, dedicated, and compassionate outdoor educators with extensive wilderness experience. They come from diverse backgrounds, including education, business, camps, other outdoor education networks, or from one of more than 40 Outward Bound schools around the world.

All instructors hold formal certifications in Wilderness First Aid and continuously update their skills through independent training, personal expeditions, and professional development provided by Outward Bound Canada.

They’re excited to meet you and support your journey!

The course fee covers all technical equipment needed for your program, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and other gear. It also includes three meals a day plus snacks.

In addition, the fee covers the cost of our experienced instructors and support staff, who play a vital role in delivering your program and supporting your group throughout the course. Their expertise and guidance are an essential part of the Outward Bound Canada experience.

Applicable taxes are also included in the total cost.

Our Cancellation Policy takes into account the fact that most of the costs for your expedition will be incurred before you arrive at your program. Please let us know as soon as possible if you will not be able to attend the program. 

Please refer to our Cancellation & Refund Policy for youth courses, cancellation policy for school/group participants, and cancellation policy for participants on funded programs.

OBC is a national charity that has been operating in Canada since 1969. Our purpose is to empower youth through experiential adventures in nature. We envision a Canada where all youth have access to high quality, high impact outdoor education experiences that help them realize their potential.

However, we also recognize that access to the natural world is not equal. To ensure broad and equitable access to these transformative experiences, we offer a variety of financial assistance options. When available, OBC provides funding for schools and groups that meet our criteria. Please contact groups@outwardboundcanada.ca to inquire about funding availability.