At the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), we partner with schools, colleges, and community organizations to design transformative outdoor programs, from local day experiences to immersive wilderness expeditions. These hands-on, nature-based courses help students grow in confidence, leadership, and connection far beyond what’s possible inside a traditional classroom. At POBS, we see how time in… READ MORE >
During this week of giving thanks, we would like to thank YOU for the support that helps young people discover what they’re capable of through the Philadelphia Outward Bound School. Partnering with over 250 public, private and charter schools and youth-serving nonprofits, POBS has provided services to over 7,000 participants across the Philadelphia region in… READ MORE >
When 13-year-old Gibran Freeman joined Philadelphia Outward Bound School’s GOAL course this summer, he was continuing a family tradition. Years earlier, his father, Meko, had instructed the very same program, guiding young people through the challenges of backpacking, canoeing, and leadership development. This time, Meko was not the instructor but the proud parent, watching his… READ MORE >
At the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), we believe in the power of challenge and community to transform lives. Diego Rosario, a student from Northeast High School and a Casey Meyer Brecker Memorial Fund Scholarship Student, has completed three Outward Bound experiences with us: an Insight Day in May 2023, a Backpacking Expedition in October… READ MORE >
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 >
by Griffy Whitman and Benje Whitman (SCH students) On the first day of school at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, most Upper School students go to their classes and meet their new teachers — but not everyone. Every year, while 10th through 12th graders read over their syllabi and start getting back into the swing of… READ MORE >
Our students head out on expedition without their phones, but we do provide each crew with a camera to document their time in nature. There are usually a few wildlife photos that come back, and we thought it would be fun to share them to give you an idea of what kinds of critters students… READ MORE >
Service has always been a cornerstone of the Outward Bound experience. Striving to make a difference in the lives of others and our communities helps cultivate compassion and foster a sense of selflessness. As Kurt Hahn once said, “We learn what it means to be human when we act to help others.” Recently POBS teamed… READ MORE >