Recreation, Sport and the Arts 401
Outward Bound's mission is 'to help people discover and develop their potential to care for themselves, others and the world around them through challenging experiences in unfamiliar settings'. Outward Bound provides training for people from all walks of life. The training is designed to foster confidence, responsibility, leadership, teamwork, creative thinking, problem-solving skills and social responsibility. The organisation uses experiential education in its training programme enabling participants to gain insights and skills that can be applied to work and real life situations. More than 8 000 people join the courses every year.
The three training bases at Sai Kung Tai Mong Tsai headquarters, Wong Wan Chau island base and the new ocean-going vessel Spirit of Outward Bound Hong Kong - can accommodate up to 180 students. Training facilities such as sailing boats, kayaks, ropes course, rock wall and a jetty are regularly checked and maintained up to international standards to ensure training safety.
Public courses are organised in Hong Kong as well as outside Hong Kong - in Taiwan, Japan, Sabah, the Philippines, Nepal and along the Silk Road on the Mainland to cater to people of different ages and needs. There are two courses, subsidised by the Government's Continuing Education Fund, which are designed to strengthen employees' capabilities and their working relationships with colleagues. The courses help participants become more confident and capable in dealing with challenges at work.
In co-operation with schools, colleges, universities and various charitable organisations, Outward Bound continues to deliver school courses for students, teachers, social workers and many others. The courses help individuals to become caring and competent leaders who can make valuable contributions to society.
The organisation also conducts tailor-made courses for corporations and government departments in Hong Kong and in the Mainland.
Adventure Ship
Adventure-Ship is a registered charity that maintains the 34.5-metre sailing junk, Jockey Club Huan, and provides adventure-based nautical programmes for young Hong Kong people. Adventure-Ship is a member of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and is funded mainly by the Community Chest and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.
Jockey Club Huan, which went into service in April 2006, can accommodate 60 people. The hull of this three-masted traditional-rig sailing junk is made of aluminum. In addition to modern navigation aids, the training vessel is equipped with a full range of amenities. Various barrier-free access and training facilities have also been installed particularly for trainees with disabilities.
Each year, more than 9 000 young people benefit from the training
programmes. The journey within Hong Kong waters usually lasts for one to three days. Challenge through 'disciplined entertainment' is the main theme of the exercise.