Opportunities

I was fortunate enough to attend Outward Bound in 2015 after being involved with the YKC for many years. Looking back, it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had through the YKC. It pushed me well outside of my comfort zone, challenged me in all sorts of ways and gave me the opportunity to meet with people who shared the same passion for dogs, creating friends for life!

 I was a member of the YKC for 18 years and I genuinely believe Outward Bound played a huge part in shaping both my personal life and my professional career. It’s an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impact long after the week has finished. It also gave me plenty of memories, a lot of laughs, and friendships that have lasted long after the week ended. If you’re lucky enough to get the chance to go, throw yourself into every activity, say yes to every challenge and enjoy every minute—you’ll come home with far more than just muddy boots and sore muscles!

I was so excited to be given the opportunity to attend Outward Bound in 2015. It was something I had heard great stories about from other volunteers and really wanted to give it a go. It surpassed all my expectations and was a trip I’ll never forget.

During my experience I developed a lot of skills which I have taken forward into my career. Building a raft to race across the lake taught me teamwork, not only how to listen to others and respect different perspectives but also how to voice my own ideas so that we could all come together and not end up in the water. This skill has been valuable to me while working as a nurse; nursing is not about being able to do it all but being able to work as a team and listen to others to save someone’s life. Our mountaineering taught me leadership skills, not because I can read a map as I still can’t, but because as a leader it’s important to listen to your team and play to their strengths. Within our mini expedition as leader I focused more on the importance of motivation and morale and empowered my team to use their strengths to get us back to camp. This is something I have taken into my current role as a university lecturer teaching student nurses, as studying at university is tough. Motivating students has been key in my role, empowering them to believe in themselves is key for their development. I must be good at it because they’ve nominated me for the ‘inspirational teaching award’ two years running.

My career wouldn’t have been possible for me without the skills and confidence I built during outward bound and volunteering for the YRKC across the years.

Back in 2004 when I set off for The Lakes with feelings of trepidation and excitement, I could never have imagined how much that one decision could impact my life and the lifelong friends I would gain.

As a student at the time, the Outward Bound curriculum and outcomes really appealed to me and seemed like a perfect opportunity to add something extra to my CV which could set me apart from my peers in the professional world.

The course itself was fast paced and fun, some of the activities required sheer grit, determination, strength, and courage, whilst others relied on problem solving and cognitive skills. Working together to complete challenges required clear communication, patience, empathy and trust in others, all essential life skills.

As a result of the Outward Bound Course, I was signed up as a YKC volunteer which led to me working various roles at Crufts on the YKC stand and ring, main ring, and collecting area, Discover Dogs, and National Camp as a team leader and trainer. Since 2008 I have organised events in Scotland which led to the creation of the regional camp now in its 9^th year.

Aside to the dog-related journey, my involvement has introduced me to some incredible people with whom I have forged genuine lasting friendships and become part of each other’s ‘real life’ out with the dog scene.

 In 2004, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in an Outward Bound course with the Young Kennel Club. It was a transformative experience that pushed me far beyond my comfort zone, helping me cultivate practical life skills and a level of self-assurance that continues to guide me today. I can still feel the surge of adrenaline from the high ropes and the exhilarating rush of jumping from a bridge into white water. While the challenges were intense, they were made possible by an exceptional team of instructors and peers who fostered an environment of unwavering support and shared success.

I am profoundly grateful to the Young Kennel Club for funding this program. Their investment in my development has provided me with a life-changing experience that might otherwise have been inaccessible.

Beyond the physical thrills, the course taught me how to remain composed under pressure, collaborate effectively within a team, and approach every obstacle with a resilient, positive mindset. The friendships I formed and the belief I gained in my own capabilities are treasures I will carry with me throughout my life.

Every participant leaves Outward Bound with something tangible: an enhanced sense of resilience, leadership skills, and the confidence to navigate an ever-changing world. It is an experience that truly prepares us for the future.

I have been lucky enough to attend Outward Bound for four separate events – two week long courses and two charity challenges. These experiences provided an amazing opportunity to develop both my leadership capabilities and personal resilience through a range of demanding outdoor activities and practical team-based challenges.

The courses focused heavily on teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership under pressure. Working with diverse groups in unfamiliar and often challenging environments helped me strengthen my ability to build trust quickly, motivate others, and adapt my leadership style to suit different situations and individuals. The activities highlighted the importance of collaboration, effective decision-making, and clear communication in achieving shared goals. They also helped strengthen and form friendships are still going strong 20 years later.

Since completing the courses, I have gone on to help the YRKC at Crufts, Summer Camp and various other events, volunteering as a Team Leader, Trainer, Commentator and Judge – the skills I gained at Outward Bound have proved to be exceptionally valuable in this time, and I have also utilised all of the skills in my professional life and they have massively helped me develop my career.