About Group Programs

North Carolina Outward Bound partners with schools, colleges and groups to offer powerful learning experiences. By partnering we can focus on the educational objectives and developmental needs of a specific population. For your organization, working with Outward Bound guarantees you the expertise of the largest, oldest, most respected provider of outdoor education in the world. No one else offers wilderness education with the same commitment and expertise regarding character and leadership development, safety, and authenticity of experience.

Outward Bound is an international educational movement dedicated to the idea that people are capable of far more than they know. Originally designed for young sailors during World War 2, the program fostered leadership qualities needed to head out onto the high seas – when their ship was ‘Outward Bound’. Now, all around the world, Outward Bound schools are preparing people to take on challenges and achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Kurt Hahn, Outward Bound’s founder, was adamant that human potential should be harnessed for the well-being of all people. As a Jewish educator living in Nazi Germany he had witnessed the horror of human power unchecked by compassion and moral courage. Hahn pioneered educational programs that inspired young people to embrace their common humanity, engage in service, and become active citizens. The challenges facing people and the planet today are different but equally pressing. Outward Bound continues Hahn’s legacy of challenging people to harness their potential to care for themselves, others and the world around them.

Adventurous experiences are central to the education at North Carolina Outward Bound School. By successfully facing authentic challenges, students realize they are capable of more than they ever imagined. By living in a group in a wilderness setting, students foster powerful connections to each other and the environment. Through personal reflection, democratic dialogue, and engaging in service, students develop the compassionate, courageous leadership needed to return to their community as active citizens.

Group Education Programs start at four days and we can design longer courses to meet your needs. A minimum of ten participants is required. Call us at (866) 231-6262 or send us an e-mail at to learn more about developing an Outward Bound course for your group.