Some of the most important lessons are learned outside of the classroom.
Drawing upon Outward Bound’s nearly 80 years of preeminence in experiential education, NYC Outward Bound Schools offers a range of Adventure & Team Building programs for students and educators. These programs build community, develop character, and promote leadership.
Stay Updated on COVID-19
NYC Outward Bound Schools is closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic, and continues to prioritize the health and well being of our students and staff. We are following recommendations from the CDC, the NYC Department of Health and the NYC Department of Education, which at this time has closed NYC public schools to students and staff for the remainder of the school year. We have suspended all of our field programs and courses for the time being and will update this page as circumstances change.
Why Work With Us
- 100% of our 2019 clients said that they would hire us again.
- 100% of our current clients answered “definitely” to the statement “Our program met our specific goals and needs.”
- Our safety record is second to none.
- All programs are can be modified based on the client’s desired outcomes.
- Our skilled course directors have extensive training in youth development and facilitation, and are experienced in designing and delivering programs that cater to the needs of each client.
- Programs are offered year-round.
- We work with students in grades 6 – 12, as well as teachers, college students, and youth workers.

Typical Participant Learning Targets:
- I can be an effective team member by participating fully in the activities to the best of my ability.
- I can share and practice the responsibilities of leadership and followership during group challenges.
- I can communicate effectively by offering my own ideas and listening to the ideas of others.
- I can build trust by relying on my group, or members of my group.
- I can reflect on my experience and think critically about how it applies to my everyday life.
Take a look at our offerings
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Team Building
Whether the focus of the day is community, confidence, or leadership, our team building activities provide excellent tools to challenge all participants, and enable them to reflect and learn.
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Climbing
Through balancing on steep faces, pulling through overhangs, or belaying the rope for a partner, climbing teaches the importance of focus, commitment, tenacity, and trust.
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Adventure Retreats
Retreats help groups recognize and discuss pertinent issues, explore challenges, set goals, and give one another meaningful feedback.
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Train-the-Trainer
With our Train-the-Trainer program, your teachers will learn how to lead experiential learning activities, and be able to bring that expertise back to your school.
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Urban Expeditions
On NYC Outward Bound Schools’ Urban Expeditions students travel NYC streets and neighborhoods to discover the richness and diversity of our city.
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Backpacking
Strapping it all on your back and setting out into the wilderness is a dramatic change of pace for most students, especially those living in New York City.