YOUTH HORIZONS
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
ABOUT THIS COURSE
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.
PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS
All participants must be:
Independent in personal care (instructors can support taking medication - medication must be in blister packs)
Able to communicate clearly and understand safety instructions
A team player who can well with others in a group environment
Able to attend without a carer, (arrangements for travelling to and from the course will be made with their associated organisation)
Have experience being away from home overnight
Capable of taking part in a full day of activities with rest breaks
Comfortable in and around the water, including having head under - lifejackets available
Self-managing of inappropriate behaviour (e.g. sexual or aggressive behaviour)
Meet Outward Bound's medical criteria, including being seizure-free for 12 months.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
When you come to Outward Bound, there are items that you will need to bring with you and items that we can supply. For the things that you bring yourself, 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. We've also noted what items you can borrow from us - no booking required.
MEET OUR ADAPTED TEAM
Andrea Smart (she/her) - Disability & Inclusion Specialist
Kia ora, I have extensive knowledge of working in the disability sector in my professional capacity as a physiotherapist. I am passionate about inclusion and empowering everyone to participate in activities within their own capability.
I believe in supporting people to learn through doing, to build on their own strengths and to empower advocacy to develop a strong voice and vision for their own future.
My main role here at Outward Bound is support you and the team across the adapted courses. I'm here to help you find the right course so that you have the best experience during your time with us.
Want to have a chat? Please get in touch with me at adapted@outwardbound.co.nz
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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.
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 and others eligible for MSD funding - including travel to and from the course.
Funding may be available for those not eligible for MSD or WINZ funding. Get in touch with us to see if you are eligible.