IOL co-ordinates Statements of Good Practice where it is deemed beneficial
to the sector as a whole, is something that is supported by and supportive
of, our members and no other relevant guidance exists.
IOL position statements give the Institutes view in a particular area
related to Outdoor Learning and clarifies expectations and requirements of
members. The web pages provide links to a range of resources and further
information.
The following Statements of Good Practice and Position Statements are
currently in development. If you would like to find out more, or feel you
have something to contribute to any of the following please get in touch
with the
IOL Professional Standards Manager.
Digital Technology and Outdoor Learning
Digital technology has the potential to be a huge distraction from and
enhancer of outdoor learning. This year, David Hills, an outdoor
educator and researcher, is conducting a major study on this topic in
consultation with practitioners and organisations in the outdoor
learning sector. This statement will not aim to promote the inclusion or
exclusion of any particular digital device but will provide guidelines
and support to professionals and organisations on including and
excluding digital technology in outdoor learning. The statement will be
presented at the sector conference in November 2020 and published on the
IOL website in January 2021.
Outdoor Learning Coaching
Coaching is a flexible and powerful tool used by outdoor learning
professionals in individual and group development. The statement will
set out the IOL Model for Coach Development in this area and highlight
considerations of ethics, boundaries of competence and training
pathways.
Woodland Based Education and Learning
The statement will set-out the essential elements and value of
Bushcraft, Forest School and similar approaches and offer guidance to
help early years, schools, youth development organisations and outdoor
learning providers choose the most appropriate programme to suit the
individuals/groups they are working with.
Mental Health First Aid Training for Outdoor Professionals
The Institute received considerable support for the recent statement of
good practice on Outdoor Mental Health Interventions alongside comments
from members on their desire to increase their knowledge and activity to
support their workforce wellbeing and mental health. Following
consultations and presentations at the IOL North West Annual Conference
(January 2020), the Institute is looking at developing specific guidance
on Mental Health First Aid for Outdoor Professionals. If you feel you
have expertise to share in this area, please get in touch to offer
support.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Position Statement
The Institute has encouraged and supported research in a range of areas,
including gender equality, over recent years. The position statement
will bring together common threads and call on the sector to take action
to raise its game in this important area.
The standards of behaviour agreed to and upheld by members of the Institute
as they cultivate and promote the special values and importance of outdoor
learning experiences.
Outdoor Learning Occupational Standards support career pathways and are the
reference point for training and awarding organisations to align with the
skills and knowledge and behaviours required by employers in a particular
role.
A National Governing Body (NGB in England, Northern Ireland and Wales) and
Scottish Governing Body (SGB) governs and administers a sport on a national
basis - including the setting of standards of instructor/coach training and
scope of practice.