What our customers say about facilitator training in organisations
ALA is working with Heineken International to deliver a world-wide programme of action learning facilitator training for staff in Heineken operating companies. Feedback from the pilot includes comments on the ALA training as well as the implementation of continuous learning groups (CLGs) as part of a first line manager development programme. On the training comments included:
Great getting to meet colleagues from around the world, knowing we are working towards a common goal, and going back to our respective Operating Companies to institute the very same process...we have the opportunity to really learn from our counterparts in different areas of the world (Americas)
Comments on the subsequent Continuous Learning Groups (CLGs) include:
It is an effective tool not only for learning, but also for facilitating networking and cross-functional interactions (Americas)
It has been creating stronger bonds between employees
The learning first line managers gain from the CLG is very valuable, as they are able to put into practice/apply it back at their workplace; thus sharing their learning with the rest of their team
It has most importantly offered the managers a unique opportunity to share work place challenges not adequately covered by class room training (Nigeria)
The CLGs are what gave the sense of continuity to this programme. It has the glue effect, linking the managers to each other and to the programme (Egypt)
Managers feel comfortable and connected and feel they are in a safe environment where they can share challenges in their managerial roles and receive insight from the others
It makes the manager more effective on the job by being able to get the best from his team (Nigeria)
Having group support is priceless (Egypt)
The effect that the first line managers had on their department is huge. Almost all of them are coaching their teams on the information they are receiving from the programme (Egypt)
The CLG is a forum where like minds work together on issues, with open minds, and with the determination to resolve such issues as a group (Nigeria)
Participants feel that the questioning insight they receive during CLG sessions is a very valuable place/setting for them to voice their issues Fellow team members and customers are already sensing the positive impact of CLG (whether directly or indirectly), through the effectiveness of the manager in their job
Feedback from participants on an on site action learning facilitator training course for NHS Health Scotland
Jackie was an excellent, engaging and supportive facilitator and I gained a thorough appreciation and understanding of action learning as well as confidence and the skills to implement it within the organisation
My organisation is going through major change and action learning sets will enable the facilitation of service change
Greatly enjoyed the balance between theory and practice – lots to reflect on in terms of personal learning as well as various ways to apply the programme
Feedback from participants on a recent in house action learning facilitator training course for Partners in Creative Learning
A fantastically run course which will be useful to the company – adding capacity with trained associates and a clear idea of new income streams
Rachel Billington, Director PICLWhat a fantastic three days – filled with learning and insight – I feel more empowered and equipped to be an action learning set member and now a facilitator.
Erica Love, Operations ManagerKatie's facilitation and leading of the three days has been fantastic – she pitched it at exactly the right level and was always supportive as well as challenging
Feedback from participants on a recent on site action learning facilitator training course run for managers at St Mungo’s – London’s largest charity for homeless people
“Andrew’s facilitation was excellent ...this will help staff and support managers and ultimately give better outcomes for clients. Very good training – probably the best I’ve done in St Mungo’s”
“ I was sceptical to start but it was a fascinating few days and I will take a lot from this... I have gained new skills but have also had an amazing opportunity to learn from my peers in a deep fashion”
“The three days were very well structured – learning by stealth! Participation in the process is very effective”
“Excellent trainer and programme – a lot of good ideas and foundations to take this forward – the benefits could be significant”
Comments from participants on a recent accredited course for training and CPD staff in Adult Social Care, Cornwall County Council
“an inspiring three days – lots of areas and time for reflection and realising the level of personal growth”
“the total immersion approach sounding daunting initially but actually worked very effectively. Kate was responsive to the needs of the group – gave us guidance when needed and space to reflect when that was needed”
ALA recently delivered an action learning facilitator training programme for four members of Take Action learning sets for arts managers and consultants with disabilities (run by Scott O’Brien Associates with Arts Council funding). Comments included:
“I felt it was a fantastic way to learn with a very flexible trainer who explained things clearly”
“ I have benefitted a great deal from the training. It has confirmed that action learning sets are a powerful tool that can unlock an individual’s understanding of both simple and complex issues”
“Ruth was warm and candid.... very responsive and really listened and observed what was happening in the group ... she was an excellent model of an action learning facilitator.’
Programmes in other organisations
Action learning is already a key part of Oxfam’s most successful internal management and leadership programme ever. The course was well prepared and extremely well delivered – Ruth as always a consummate professional and outstanding action learning role model.
Audrey Bronstein, Deputy International Director, Oxfam GB“I gained benefits for my own personal development. For my organisation it will be a valuable tool to help develop individuals and help meet the Council's aspirations. Katie was an excellent training and I loved her 'hands-on' approach. She also enabled a safe learning environment to enable us all to fully participate and explore action learning”.
June Gurry, Democratic Services Manager, Torbay Council
“Our organisation was already working with other Action Learning providers and the staff involved were almost cultish about it. I wanted to find out why. Ruth is an extraordinary facilitator, very skilled. This course strengthened my resolve that everyone should have access to Action Learning, not just management.”
Hassina Khan, former Professional Learning Manager, Creativity, Culture and Education
“I have never attended any other training session which has not only met my expectations but surpassed them in every aspect. It has opened my eyes to the multiplicity of ways in which action learning can be used and inspired me to act on ideas rather than just talking about them”.
Arts Project Manager