OutsideIn

Came across a comment from a US Congresswoman, Suzanne Bonamici, that summed up something I think about a lot.
She pointed out that subjects like theatre, art and the humanities aren't seen as "useful" for the workplace. But they're exactly where people build confidence, communication, creativity and the ability to work with others — skills that turn out to matter more than almost anything else.

We're quick to judge an education or a career by its immediate payoff. What does it earn you. How fast does it pay off.
But some of the best things humans have ever done — in culture, in science, in how we live together — came from people who didn't take the strictly logical, strictly profitable path.

That's worth remembering next time someone questions the value of getting kids outdoors, on a stage, or into something that doesn't show up neatly on a spreadsheet.

What's a subject or experience that shaped you in ways you didn't expect at the time?

Came across a comment from a US Congresswoman, Suzanne Bonamici, that summed up something I think about a lot.
She pointed out that subjects like theatre, art and the humanities aren't seen as "useful" for the workplace. But they're exactly where people build confidence, communication, creativity and the ability to work with others — skills that turn out to matter more than almost anything else.
We're quick to judge an education or a career by its immediate payoff. What does it earn you. How fast does it pay off.
But some of the best things humans have ever done — in culture, in science, in how we live together — came from people who didn't take the strictly logical, strictly profitable path.
That's worth remembering next time someone questions the value of getting kids outdoors, on a stage, or into something that doesn't show up neatly on a spreadsheet.
What's a subject or experience that shaped you in ways you didn't expect at the time?

Step into a learning experience that will expand your skills and connect you with a community of educators who believe in the power of the outdoors.
HKOLA 2025 is more than a conference—it’s a catalyst for change.

Join outdoor educators, school leaders, and program providers from across Hong Kong and beyond for two days of hands-on workshops, uplifting conversations, and shared adventures. Whether you’re looking to enrich your practice, build new partnerships, or explore fresh ideas, you’ll leave energized and equipped with small, practical actions that create BIG impacts for your students.

Come connect. Come learn. Come be inspired.
Your next step toward transformative outdoor learning begins at HKOLA 2025.

Calling everyone!

Do you want to change the outdoor workspace into a a place that’s seen as equal to the finance and education and other sectors?
Join us this weekend to help create the outdoor learning space into a recognised and supported career pathway!

Together, we have the power to shape a future that respects and supports our community.

Your voice matters, and now's the time to use it! Become a member and attend our upcoming conference to be part of this important change. Let's work together for a brighter future!

Membership: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/become-a-member
Conference: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/hkola-conference-2024

🔊 Calling all outdoor and learning professionals!
Are you ready to transform the outdoor space into a haven for adventure and learning? Join us in our mission to create safe and valuable environments while promoting fairness and equality for outdoor professionals everywhere.
Together, we have the power to shape a future that respects and supports our community. 💪 Your voice matters, and now's the time to use it!
Become a member and attend our upcoming conference to be part of this important change. Let's work together for a brighter future! 🌿👷‍♂️

Membership: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/become-a-member
Conference: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/hkola-conference-2024

🌲 Ready to make a change? Join us in our mission to secure the outdoors as a safe and valuable place for thrilling adventures and impactful learning. Together, we can ensure fairness and equality with consistent working conditions for outdoor professionals everywhere. 💪 Your voice matters, and now's the time to use it! Become a member today and attend our upcoming conference to make a real difference. 🌍✨ Membership: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/become-a-member Conference: https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/hkola-conference-2024 #OutdoorEquality #JoinTheMission #outdooreducation #outdoorlearning #outdoorprofessional #cas #ib #adventureeducation

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of our dear colleague Beelan’s passing earlier this week.

Beelan brought so much life and energy to our team. Beelan was a truly passionate and joyful person who had a remarkable ability to spread enthusiasm wherever he went.

No matter the circumstances, we all know that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes bad things happen to the best of us.
Let’s all take a page from Beelan’s book and cherish every moment we have. His spirit reminds us to embrace each day with positivity and kindness.

Though he may no longer be with us, Beelan will always hold a special place in our hearts. He will be missed deeply but never forgotten.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

🚑 We had a fantastic day running a First Aid Course for our young champions! 🌟
Teaching essential skills to our future leaders, empowering them to respond confidently to emergencies and be everyday heroes. The kids were eager, attentive, and had a blast while learning how to help others.
🎒🩹 A big thank you to the enthusiastic students and dedicated faculty for making safety education a priority. Together, we're building a safer, more prepared community! 🌐👦👧

🌊 Another exhilarating day exploring the coast and challenging our limits with amazing students.
🧗‍♂️🌅 Coasteering is all about adventure, teamwork, and pushing boundaries in the great outdoors. It's amazing how much confidence and camaraderie can be built in such a short time
🌿🌊 Huge thanks to the adventurous students and supportive school staff for embracing the thrill of exploration and learning through nature.
Let's continue to embrace adventure and grow together! 🌐🌞👩‍🎓👨‍🎓

Just wrapped up a successful first aid course for a group of adults, kindly hosted by The Hutong!
They learned essential skills like CPR, wound care and how to handle emergencies.
Equipped with this knowledge, they're now empowered to be lifesavers in their communities.
Thank you to all the participants for their commitment to being prepared and making a difference!
🌐🆘

Sign up for the HK Outdoor Learning Association Conference 2024. It will be a fantastic chance to meet with other experiential educators, providers and schools, to share ideas, and discuss best practices in Hong Kong.
The conference will be over two days (27th & 28th January).
Saturday 27th January: Pak Sha Wan Scout Centre, Sai Kung and,
Sunday 28th January: International College Hong Kong Secondary, nr Sha Tau Kok.
Bus transportation will be provided between ICHK Secondary and Tai Wo MTR.
Participants can choose to come for either one day ($500) or both days ($750)

https://www.hkoutdoorlearning.org/courses/hkola-conference-2024