"This course has had a dramatic effect on the delegate's performance. They returned to work with a very enthusiastic outlook and high morale. Other employees are now vying to get on the next Skern Lodge course" - Personnel Manager

ACTION ORIENTED
The learning on our courses is based on experience. People tackle projects together, negotiate, agree goals and can measure results. Real issues arise and constraints are felt. Decisions are made and the consequences clear to see.

As the team develops, they experience the emotions associated with motivation, different leadership styles and the management of change.

THE EXERCISES
Structured events take anything from a few minutes to a full day. Some are recognisable as outdoor activities, such as canoeing, abseiling and archery. Many are problem solving activities or projects which parallel an existing work situation. Each participant has the opportunity to experience events from a different viewpoint in many different situations.

These events are detached from the participant's actual work. No-one is expected to be an expert at ropework or crossing a river. Often there is no "right answer" to the project set and , for once, actual business performance is not at risk. This means people feel secure in trying out a new approach and seeing it as an opportunity for learning and discovery.

AN HOLISTIC APPROACH
Use of the outdoors takes the whole situation into account. It deals with a wide range of aspects of the individual, the team and the organisation in a seamless, continuous manner.

The emphasis is always on what needs to be done as a result of any experience - forward looking and positive. Participants practice the skills of giving and receiving feedback, increasing people's self-awareness.

Feedback and reflection in review lead to strong learning points. Success leads to confidence, which stretches people's perception of what they can do. Difficulties are tackled and new commitments tested in the next action phase.

Appropriate involvement by the tutor ensures development remains the priority, and relevant theory models are brought in to aid discussion.

TRANSFERABLE
The combination of theory, action and reflection helps people develop the ability to learn from events themselves. It is a step forward in managing one's own development.

An outdoor programme is also enjoyable, memorable and builds a strong sense of team belonging. It can create a climate in which new possibilities are considered favourably. People return to work with the ability to influence events and initiate new ideas.

This is continuous improvement - an outdoor programme has lasting effects.