Teachers are an integral part of our Schools Programs.  If you have any further concerns or require more information then please talk to the Coordinating Teacher at your school or contact us .

How many teachers do we need to provide for course?
One teacher for each group of around 13-18 students should be provided. Each group will have one teacher and one instructor.
If there are three or more groups of students the school needs to provide an additional backup teacher to stay at basecamp and assist.

Do the teachers have direct responsibility?
Occasionally you may. In emergency situations, when a radio call needs to be made or when the group needs to collect supplies. In these instances, the instructor and teacher need to communicate effectively so that both are competent, and the group's safety is still the priority.  In most instances, the instructor has direct responsibility for the group.

What does Outward Bound supply?
Backpack, sleeping bag, thermarest, water bottles, food, shelter, first aid kit, map, compass, activity and safety equipment.

What do I need to bring?
Only personal clothing and gear from the 'Personal Clothing and Equipment List' supplied by Outward Bound.  You may bring some additional items for personal comfort eg. snacks, book. However, as we ask the students not to bring these items, you need to be very discreet.  Please speak with your Coordinating Teacher to approve any additional items via the Outward Bound Client Manager.

What can't I bring?
We ask that you don't bring a mobile phone unless essential. Often there is no reception. If you need to make an emergency call or receive one Outward Bound or the Backup teacher can arrange this.
Alcohol and cigarettes. See notes below.

Can I contact my family during course?
We cannot promise that there will be an opportunity for you to speak directly with your family during course, this will depend on a number of factors eg. location, access, reception, other priorities. However there may be an opportunity for you to pass on a message via the Backup teacher and likewise receive an important message.

Will I be participating in all activities?
There may be opportunities for teachers to undertake some activities if desired eg. abseiling and rock climbing, however this cannot be guaranteed due to time restraints, numbers, group dynamics, safety, supervision requirements etc.  As the course is designed for the students, our first priority is to get them through the activities. Often you are required as another set of eyes to assist with the safe operations of each activity. Whilst you are not required to attempt all activities, if time permits your participation can be very encouraging as a positive role model for students.
The group remains together at all times.

How fit do I need to be?
Outward Bound recommends an average level of fitness. The group moves together, often on expedition you will be at the back ensuring safety.  The group moves as fast as it's slower member.It may be useful to have done a little bit of walking, with a backpack, to make it easier for you (see physical preparation).

Where will I be sleeping?
Similarly to the students the accompanying teacher and instructor on a standard course will sleep under a bivvy (sheet of plastic). The teacher will share a bivvy with their instructor/s. If this is a problem then an individual bivvy can be arranged.
 
What sort of food do we eat?
There are a variety of menus including fruit, vegetables, bread, cereal, pasta, rice, cous cous, meat, trail mix. The students plan and cook the meals for the entire group (instructors and teachers included) from a selection of fresh, dry and tinned food.  All the menus have been worked out on a calorie basis, energy requirements and specific age groups of the students.
If you have special dietary requirements, you need to list this on your medical form. Outward Bound can cater for vegetarian and lactose intolerant. Other special dietary requirements eg. gluten free, diabetes may require you to bring additional food. Please speak with your coordinating teacher if you have any concerns.

Do I need to fill out a medical form?
YES! All accompanying and backup teachers are required to complete the medical declaration form. Outward Bound will supply you with one closer to your course. This needs to be completed, along with a teacher profile and sent to Outward Bound with the student medical forms.

Can I only attend half a course?
We ask that you make the commitment to the whole program. The group of students, instructor and yourself essentially make a self-sufficient team. The group dynamics can be affected if you depart early. It is often very difficult for the group, if it is seen that the teacher is only there for some of the time, and they have to tough it out.

What happens if I get sick?
If you are unable to continue, the backup teacher will replace you. You may return to basecamp for a rest, or you may go home.

Do teachers pay for the course?
NO! Only students are charged a course fee.

Can I smoke or drink alcohol during course?
NO! Due to the responsibilities inherent in your role as a teacher and role model, it is not appropriate for alcohol to be consumed during the course. We ask that out of self-respect and self-discipline the students and Outward Bound staff also do not smoke. In addition, this is a safety risk in the environment we operate in.