In August a group of apprentices from the construction sector were given a unique opportunity to share the life changing Outward Bound experience on two customised Outward Bound watches.
The objective of sending a group of construction apprentices on the 21-day Outward Bound course was to help develop young tradespeople into industry leaders for the future.
The customised construction watches are an initiative of the BETA (Built Environment Training Alliance) group of ITOs, and were held for the first time in 2007.
Four BCITO specialist trades apprentices were awarded BCITO scholarships to attend the course alongside other apprentices from construction-related industry training organisations.
They also joined six Registered Master Builders Carters 2007 Apprentice of the Year winners.
Outward Bound is based in Anakiwa, Malborough Sounds, and was established in 1962. The 21-day classic programme focuses on the development of self awareness and inner strength through a wide range of activities involving physical challenges, social sharing and creative expression.
Matt Sharp, Wellington Apprentice of the Year 2007 and now a BCITO-qualified carpenter, says he arrived in Anakiwa feeling excited about the experience ahead.
“I was really looking forward to meeting new people and I felt ready for a challenge,” Matt says.
‘Amazing what you can achieve’
One of the key skills Matt learnt on the course was about the value of teamwork.
“It’s amazing what you can achieve when everyone in the team is focused on the same thing. I learnt a lot about interacting with people, and I feel like I have come away with the tools to deal with different personalities, in all sorts of situations.”
Matt also gained some insights about his own personality. “I realised I can push myself mentally a lot further than I thought, and I’ll be setting the bar higher now when it comes to achieving my goals.”
The course was also a lot of fun. Some of Matt’s highlights included the high ropes course, sailing and rock climbing whilst blindfolded!
BCITO apprentices Sean Collins from Te Rapa Plasterers, Joby Kara from Allan Shannon Plasterers and Giovanni Brown and Norton Hollows from Copley Solid Plasterers Ltd were awarded BCITO scholarships to attend the course.
