The Outward Bound School (HKOBS) is a registered charity and non-profit-making organisation established in 1970. It is also a member of Outward Bound International, the world leader and originator of outdoor experiential education operating more than 45 schools in 30 countries for almost 60 years.

          The group's mission is to stimulate personal development and generate understanding between people by taking them out of familiar environments; setting a new challenge in a demanding adventure programme; and providing an experience which inspires responsibility, self-reliance, teamwork, confidence, compassion and community service.

          Apart from open enrolment courses for the general public, HKOBS provides special programmes for the handicapped, schools, universities, socially deprived and delinquent youths and government and private sector employees.

          An annual bursary from the Home Affairs Bureau has been indispensable to the young people with financial needs, particularly when the economy tumbles. HKOBS was grateful to have a Flag Day in August this year. The additional source of income will be crucial for carrying on its mission.

          In response to the increasing number of teenage suicides and suicide attempts, HKOBS, The Samaritans and the KELY Support Group united to develop a special training course in suicide prevention, known as 'The Life Skills Project', for students aged 17 to 19. The inaugural course at the beginning of the year was funded by the Rotary Club of Kowloon and went exceedingly well.

          HKOBS continues to support the region by acting as mentor to a start-up committee in the Philippines and providing staff and support to associated groups in Indonesia, Nepal and Malaysia when resources permit.

          During the year, some HKOBS staff went to the USA, Canada and New Zealand for training. Selected instructors also participated in courses led by Outward Bound International. Through these exchanges, HKOBS hopes to remain on the cutting edge of experiential education and to bring Hong Kong the very latest training programmes possible.