Experiential learning in the great outdoors

Left to right: Andy Woodfine, Outward Bound instructor, Teresa Jones, Jimmy Wilkins, Owen Moormen, Dan Birch, Dan Holdsworth, Ieuan Watkins, Ben Greenhow, Niall Salmon.

The aim of the workshop was for the apprentices to learn the importance of behavioural and personal development for their apprenticeship and career. They also explored a range of different learning models and how they linked back to the company’s seven core values: Entrepreneurial spirit; Innovation; Quality; Flexibility; Customer Focus; Integrity, and Sustainability; all of which make up the foundations of how we operate as a business to how we can offer the best solution possible with the best whole life cost for our clients.

During this task, the apprentices reflected on what these core values meant to them individually, how these values would be applied to their line of work, and how they would promote these values as they progressed further into their careers.

As well as this, there were fun team-building exercises organised for the apprentices which gave them an opportunity to develop new skills too. Activities included gorge walking, hiking, and raft building. At the end of each day, there was an opportunity for the group to do some self-reflection of their day and set goals for what they wanted to achieve the following day.

On the final day, the apprentices presented a summary of their week, what the key takeaways had been for them personally and as a team; as well as reflecting on fellow team members and how each demonstrated the core values throughout the week.

Commenting on the apprentices’ achievements, Andrew Clisham said, “I am very proud of how well these young individuals came together and presented their review as a team.

My personal experience was exceptional, I enjoyed every minute of it and would highly recommend anyone to this course. It really has made me realise what a great company this is and why I’m still here after 14 years, and hopefully many, many more.”

Industrial placement student, Niall Salmon, also shared his experience, " I thoroughly enjoyed the week and learnt some vital career lessons from it."

If you are interested in applying for our Apprenticeship Scheme for 2023 intake, please email our Recruitment Officer, Alice Warden at alice.walden@dennis-eagle.co.uk for more details.