On August 27th a group of Special Olympics athletes had the opportunity to embark upon an Outward Bound Horizons Course. Horizons is an adapted course that provides all the adventure of an Outward Bound experience with the provision for additional rest breaks and support.
The key objectives for this course are that students discover their Mauri ora, or best self, by developing connection, compassion, responsibility and resilience in relation to themselves, other people, values and the natural world.
The 11 awesome humans in Sheppard Watch came together from all walks of life, from a range of intellectual disabilities with a shared desire to push themselves and have a fun adventure. The adventure started with a boat ride from Picton to Anakiwa where Sheppard were welcomed through a nau mai process. After that it was time to get orientated, unpack and get to know each other.
Day two started with a run and cold swim (a daily routine) and then Sheppard Watch set out on a hike around Anakiwa to come up with some common group values, followed by the first of many games of bump tag. On Day three Sheppard packed their bags for an adventure sailing a 30-foot cutter on the moana to Te Kainga Bay. There, Sheppard Watch learnt how to build tarps, built sculptures on the beach and spent a short time alone reflecting on who they were and who they wanted to be.
After two nights away from base, it was time to put their sailing skills to the test sailing back to Anakiwa. On day six Sheppard Watch learnt how to navigate with a map by doing an orienteering course. This was followed by jumping off the jetty into cold water, which everyone did with a smile. Finally, Sheppard watch painted their faces with face paint to show loud and proud what their strengths were. Day seven was a day of stepping out of their comfort zones up on the rock wall. Sheppard Watch continued their theme of support for each other cheering every person through.
The final day was a day of endings and beginnings. Sheppard Watch now had new friendships and the confidence that they can go out and tackle every challenge thrown their way.
Sttudents are motivated to use the skills and tools they learn at Outward Bound in their lives at home, including;
- Confidence, independence and self-management
- Social awareness and communication
- Appreciation of the natural environment
- Problem solving, goal setting, and decision making
These course objectives and outcomes are achieved through students experiencing:
- Whakawhanaungatanga – working in a team and becoming whānau
- Adventure and wero – challenge
- Facilitated experiential learning
- Positive role models
- Kaitiakitanga – guardianship
- Āwhina mai, āwhina atu – giving and receiving service
- Tāoro – active reflection in a safe and supportive learning environment