Thirty five year eight students from across Western Sydney have spent five days in Tharwa in the ACT,after being selected by The Smith Family to take part in a personal development course with a difference.

Supported by The Smith Family’s suite of Learning for Life educational support programs, the students embarked on an Outward Bound Australia adventure designed to help them grow in self confidence, bond with others and develop their resilience and social skills.

Nestled on the fringe of the Namadgi National Park, Outward Bound’s base rests outside of the comfort zone for most of the city-based students,. Being isolated from all of their creature comforts removes distractions for the students and provides opportunity for reflection and goal setting.

The students, who reside in and around Mt. Druitt in Western Sydney, participate in activities such as expeditions into the wilderness, rock climbing, ropes courses and a series of fun initiatives that help students meet the aims of the Outward Bound component of the program.

The Smith Family's Learning for Life program supports disadvantaged children and young people all the way through their education, from pre-school and primary school, to senior school and on to tertiary studies if they choose.

The Smith Family CEO, Dr Lisa O’Brien said The Smith Family’s partnership with Outward Bound allows for students to take part in experiences which may otherwise not be available to them and which complement classroom learning.

“This personal development course forms part of the holistic approach we take to children’s education, helping them develop vital life skills, stay engaged in their education and reach their full potential,” Dr O’Brien said.

Outward Bound Australia has worked with The Smith Family on several occasions, most notably the National Aspiring Leaders Summit. Each year students from across the country travel to Canberra for a special leadership forum. CEO, Darren Black said the partnership with The Smith Family provides an avenue for many disadvantaged Australians to challenge themselves and set goals for their future.

“We’re pleased to be working in collaboration with The Smith Family. At Outward Bound we feel that all young Australians have the right to discover and achieve their full potential.”

“Students often find they are capable of much more than they ever thought possible when challenged. It’s a process we’re proud to help facilitate,” Mr Black said.

The students will return to Outward Bound next year, to build upon what they have learned.