Outdoor learning professionals provide safe activities and effective
learning in the outdoors for the benefit of individuals, communities,
society and the economy.
They are trained, experienced and uphold the values and behaviours that help
others adventure in their environment, gain skills and make a positive
difference for our world.
Professionals in outdoor learning may volunteer, work full-time or part-role
to positively impact areas such as sports participation, outdoor education,
youth development, wellbeing, workforce training or adventure tourism.
Associate Professionals in Outdoor Learning
Associate Professionals in Outdoor Learning have responsibility for
leading safe and engaging outdoor learning sessions in order to
achieve intended outcomes. They have a minimum of one years' outdoor
learning work experience plus relevant qualifications at RQF/CQFW
Level 3 / SQCF Level 6 or higher.
Professionals in Outdoor Learning
Professionals in Outdoor Learning have responsibility for shaping
effective outdoor learning by exercising autonomy and judgement within
medium / long term parameters. They have a minimum of at least five
years' experience in outdoor learning (including at least two years in
a position of responsibility) plus degree level learning.
Outdoor Role
The three categories in the centre of the image can be combined to describe
a role in outdoor learning - what position someone holds,
which outdoor activities and subjects they specialise in, and
why they do it.
Outdoor position
e.g. Teaching, Instructing, Coaching, Guiding, Leading, Training, Educating,
Advising, Managing, Directing
Outdoor activity and subject specialisms
e.g. Adventure Sports, Nature Connection, Outdoor Science, Team Challenges,
Expeditions, Outdoor Living Skills
General purpose and intent
e.g. Sports participation, Outdoor education, Youth development, Wellbeing,
Workforce training, Adventure tourism
Outdoor Professional Values
Values learners
Guides, encourages and supports each learner in their development to achieve
their potential. Focusses on agreed outcomes, responds to changing
individual and group needs. Role-models an inclusive, motivating and
positive approach.
Values the environment
Champions, actively respects and cares for the environment. Builds awareness
of impact and encourages behaviours in others that support sustainability.
Inspires connection, understanding and promotes on-going engagement with the
outdoors.
Values their development
Is a self-starter that learns from experience, research and reflection.
Inquisitive and open to new opportunities and advances in good practice.
Takes pride in their profession and seeks to develop others as they develop
themselves.
Professional Competence
Competent to provide safe activities and effective learning in outdoor
environments
Holds sufficient knowledge, skills, experience and judgement to deliver
safe activities and effective learning on land, water, or in the air.
Education, training, training, experience and competence is aligned with relevant
occupational standards
and guidance for the role - whether as a volunteer or employee.
Current
Engages in regular reflective practice and regular
continuing professional development (CPD).
Professional Compliance
Follows their organisations policies and procedures.
Meets
safeguarding, data protection, first aid, insurance
and legal requirements.
Accredited
Has their approach to outdoor learning recognised through relevant
qualifications, NGB awards and
membership levels.