9th Grader Chidera O. Reflects on Her (Rainy) Outward Bound Expedition Each year, thousands of students embark on Outward Bound expeditions without fully knowing what they’ll face or how much they’ll grow. Behind every program are instructors, school partners, and staff who believe in the power of new experiences, compassionate guidance, and time for reflection…. READ MORE >
From wilderness expeditions to a meeting with Prince Edward, Madelyn’s story shows what young people can achieve through Outward Bound and the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Last month, sixteen Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) alumni participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a visit and celebration with His Royal… READ MORE >
Highlights from the 2nd Annual POBS Partner Breakfast Earlier this month, more than 50 guests, including current and prospective school partners, funders, and community stakeholders, gathered for an engaging conversation on Advancing Access to the Outdoors. The morning featured compelling insights from Brandon Hoover of Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), who shared… READ MORE >
The squealing sounds of saws and the smell of wood dust filled the shop at Philadelphia Woodworks in Manayunk, where artisans make everything from dressers to bowls. At his workstation, Roman McNichols, 16, sawed slabs of wood into usable cuts of lumber. “My favorite is cedar, it smells like Christmastime,” he said. “Poplar smells pretty… READ MORE >
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, will embark on a two-day visit to Philadelphia Wednesday and Thursday to recognize youth education in the city, and to commemorate the historic ties between the U.S. and Great Britain. This is Prince Edward’s third visit to Philadelphia, following his trips in 2012 and 2018. As a working royal, the… READ MORE >
Most of the ninth grade class at Valley Forge Military Academy for five days this month traded their classrooms for the AppalachianTrail, hiking through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, learning essential outdoor skills like navigation, camp craft, and backpacking, all while developing teamwork, resilience and leadership, according to the school. The purpose of… READ MORE >
Now that spring has arrived, our amazing school and community partners — as well as new groups looking to join the adventure — are heading outdoors to embrace the challenge, growth, and self-discovery that await with Outward Bound! In just the next two months, POBS will serve more than 2,000 students through its single-day programs… READ MORE >
The Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Valley Forge Military Academy (VFMA), an international leadership institution where young men discover their potential, fortify their character, and develop into leaders of positive change within their communities and nationwide. Launched in early 2025 as part of VFMA’s ambitious strategic… READ MORE >