Having completed training as an Action Learning Facilitator with Action Learning Associates, supported by Arts Council England, I am pleased to be able to offer this facilitation service to those working in the Creative Industries in the Midlands.

Action Learning is a structured process of peer support based on open questioning, reflective practice and personal empowerment. Working with 6-8 peers in a group (set), normally for a minimum of 6 sessions, action learning provides:

• Support and challenge from peers
• The opportunity to learn from good practice and to develop different    solutions
• The opportunity to develop listening and diagnostic skills
• The chance to reflect
• Constructive feedback
• A safe environment to explore strengths and weaknesses
• Time to problem solve, think “outside the box” and plan ahead
• The opportunity to develop strong working relationships and reduce any isolation
• Time to think about you

After an introductory taster session, a programme of 6 sessions will be scheduled, normally every other month or quarterly. At the beginning of the processes a basic understanding of the history and theory of Action Learning will be given. At the end of the 6 sessions the progress of the set will be reviewed to determine next steps. Should a set wish to continue, it may be that it is confident enough in the process to become self sustaining.

Action Learning is a subtle process that can have a really powerful and positive impact on those involved in a set. I do hope to be able to share my appreciation of it with you!

Next Offer:

After the delivery of two taster sessions and thanks to support from Arts Council England, the first Focus: Peer Support Programme began in March 2016 and ran until December 2016.

I plan to arrange further taster sessions in the near future to establish another Action Learning set – please email me if you’d like to be kept informed.

Feedback form the last cohort of Focus:

“Focus has provided me with skills to approach things differently. It has made me realise things about myself e.g. I tend to jump in with advice rather than help people come to their own conclusions. The tools are such that you can use them in every area of life and whilst work was the reason to be part of the group the impact is much broader”.

“Presenting and working through some of my preoccupations with the group offered different ways of approaching and thinking which I found positive and provided lots of food for thought”.

“Focus is about learning a set of skills which help a person to consider issues differently both within the world of work and should you choose, more generally in life”.

“The programme has showed me the value of listening to others when working with them to problem solve and the power of silence, also it has shown me the importance of reflecting on your work when aiming to drive yourself forward. It has given me more confidence in my ability to talk about my past work and my ideas for the future”.

“Jane’s course is a fantastic programme for any professional aiming to shape a more productive future for themselves. Whether you work for an organisation in a team or you are an independent trader this opportunity will build your skills in leadership and strategic thinking. This course is a must for professionals who want to think intensely in preparation to act resourcefully.”

“Thanks for a really stimulating, generous process which I value and from which I will continue to benefit.”