The Senior Professional in Outdoor Learning (SPOL) is designed for those members who have at least ten years’ experience in a position of responsibility for outdoor learning plus relevant qualifications at RGQ/CQFW Level 6 / SQCF Level 9 or higher or who can evidence equivalent learning experience.
Positions of responsibility includes paid or volunteer roles in outdoor learning such as:
- Outdoor Learning Specialists – facilitators, practitioners, teachers, coaches
- Managers in Outdoor Learning – leaders, managers, directors
- Advisors in Outdoor Learning – outdoor education advisors, consultants
- Workforce / Profession Developers – trainers, lecturers, researchers
Applicants evidence their values, experience, learning and mindset:
Mapped alignment of the Experience Indicators (EI), Learning Descriptors (LD) and Mindset Criteria (MC):
The SPOL application form allows applicants to evidence how their personal values, experience and learning influence their practice and their leadership (Fig. 2 and 3.) Applicants also gather two statements of support confirming their values, experience and learning. Applications are reviewed by the IOL and submissions in different formats ae welcomed.
Successful recognition as a Senior Professional in Outdoor Learning automatically assigns you with the IOL Fellowship status of Senior Fellow of the Institute for Outdoor Learning and affirms that you are operating at the highest level.
Benefits of gaining recognition as a Senior Professional of Outdoor Learning include:
- Independent verification of your leadership, learning and expertise
- Enhances your professional credibility and demonstrates your level of expertise to customers, employers and the value you bring
- A gateway for achieving Senior Fellowship of the IOL
- Helps improve the strength of the IOL representation and voice inside and outside the sector
- Creates opportunities to contribute to and influence the future development of outdoor learning.