WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GIVE TEACHERS SPACE TO STEP BACK, RECONNECT AND REFLECT?
Teaching is one of the most rewarding careers, but it can also be relentless. Pressures around budgets, inspections, behaviour, and accountability can grind staff down. At Outward Bound, we believe that supporting teachers is just as important as supporting students.
Our 2025 evaluation, Benefits to Teachers, explores how immersive outdoor residentials don’t just benefit pupils. They can also be transformational for the adults who lead them. Download the report
SOME KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE REPORT:
1. Stronger staff cohesion
Teachers told us that team dynamics shifted after a shared experience in the wild. Facing physical and mental challenges together helped them:
– Build trust and mutual understanding
– Develop shared experiences that reinvigorate relationships
Back in school, these stronger bonds create a more collaborative, resilient staff culture.
“It made me see my colleagues in a new light. We encouraged each other, shared challenges, and grew closer as a result.”
2. Deeper bonds with students
There’s not always time in school to connect properly. But on an Outward Bound residential, the usual roles are stripped away. Teachers and students face the same challenges in the same environment.
– Teacher-student relationships grow in strength and depth
– Time outdoors builds empathy and mutual respect
“I learned things about my pupils that I never would have in a classroom. We were equals out there.”
3. A better understanding of young people
Out in nature, away from timetables and targets, teachers see a different side of their students. Many told us they gained new insight into the pressures young people face, and how they respond to challenge.
“Seeing how a student coped with fear or frustration helped me understand what they’re carrying with them every day.”
These experiences equip staff to better support pupils when they return to school, not just in lessons, but emotionally too.
4. Personal growth and renewed purpose
Outward Bound isn’t just a break from routine. It’s a space to reflect, reconnect with your purpose, and return with practical tools and new energy. Teachers described:
– More confidence in their role
– Fresh perspectives on behaviour and inclusion
– Greater empathy, resilience and emotional intelligence
“This experience made me reflect on why I became a teacher in the first place. It reignited my passion.”
Why it matters, for schools, trusts and leaders
One in three teachers leaves the profession within five years. Many cite workload, stress and lack of support. Each resignation costs schools time, money and experience.
That’s why staff wellbeing and retention are no longer ‘nice-to-haves’. They’re essential.
Programmes like Outward Bound help schools:
- Build more resilient, cohesive staff teams
- Deepen teacher-student relationships
- Improve understanding of student needs
- Support staff retention through meaningful development
Ofsted, MAT boards and governors are all placing greater emphasis on how schools support their staff. These programmes aren’t just good for wellbeing, they strengthen safeguarding, culture and school improvement too.
And it’s not just teachers who benefit. Support staff, teaching assistants and early career teachers often take part. The ripple effects are felt across classrooms, corridors and communities.
Get in touch
With over 80 years of experience developing young people, we understand the challenges you face. We work in partnership with you to develop courses designed for your groups needs. Let’s talk
