In early September, 14 students from WHEC headed the Outward Bound Centre, at Loch Eil, north of Fort William for a week of outdor activities.
The week started with a bang, or, rather a splash with customary jog and dip. This starting activity involves jogging from the centre, right along the pier and into the freezing waters below. It’s certainly one way to wake you up after a long journey, put it that way!
Our first evening was sent a couple of miles from the centre, completing team building challenges, as developing teamwork and collaboration was one core objectives.
Over the next 2 days we planned for, and undertook an expedition. This involved packing our kit of sleeping bags, tents, food and spare clothing before completing a long walk into a camping spot. In true Scottish fashion, the weather was out on our side and students battled winds and rains and hails and were somehow still smiling! We even managed to catch a glimpse of the famous Harry Potter train as it journeyed its way north through the countryside.
Our expedition was cut a little short due to an unfortunate injury but students pulled together to help one another to scramble back to the mini bus safely. Hats off to some members of the group who even carried more than one rucksack to make the journey easier for others.
Luckily for us, the rest of the week was injury and largely rain free so we were able to enjoy activities such as canoeing, hill walking and even rock climbing at Glen Nevis. Movie buffs enjoyed seeing the spot where William Wallace makes his famous speech in Braveheart.
Overall, it was a great week enjoyed by teachers and students alike. Thanks Outward Bound!
Outward Bound – A Student Account
On of our S6 pupils Elle had the opportunity to attend a 19 days Outward Bound Experience over the summer, fully funded by Outward Bound partners. Elle had attended the senior Outward Bound trip the previous September, filled out an application with the Support of Miss Paton, and was lucky enough to be selected for the program. Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
During my time at outward bound, I took part in activities that pushed me out of my comfort zone which has made me a more confident person. From climbing up Ben Nevis and going on a 3 day expedition without an instructor, i was forced to become more independent during the 3 week course which made me feel more like an adult. My favourite part of the course was meeting new people from lots of different countries like America, France and Germany. Some of these people were part of my team during the 3 weeks and showed me how important it was to have a good relationship with the people around you, so that you can get the most out of whatever your doing. This experience has taught me things that I can use in the future and it has also taught me that being pushed out of your comfort zone isn’t always a bad thing.
The Outward Bound Trust
Wester Hailes Education Centre has been in partnership with The Outward Bound Trust for the last 3 years. Outward Bound offers an excellent opportunity for pupils to develop leadership, confidence, teamwork and a variety of other skills, that the pupils can use in school and into their working lives. Not only this, but the activities are also great fun! The children are encourage to get out of their comfort zones in various outdoor activities such as Gorge Walking, 25km camping trips, rock climbing and much more, all under the safety of qualified Outward Bound instructors.
The next Outward Bound trip available to pupils will be for S1-3 in May 2020. The next Senior Outward Bound will be run in September 2020. For further information, please contact Miss Brown in P.E. More information will go out to pupils closer to the time.