Action Learning is a method of group coaching involving questioning, listening to self and others, and taking action on real issues that are inhibiting progress. Action Learning Sets are recognised to be a powerful, cost effective and convenient way to support staff to learn and develop greater insight into managing situations and people (including oneself). These also support a culture of psychological safety within an organisation, whereby staff feel able to speak up and be listened to.

An Action Learning Set is a structured environment with the following format and parameters:

A consistent group of up to 6 participants (ideally peers working at the same level).
Meeting 6 times, approximately once a month over 6 months.
Each session will last for 90 minutes allowing time for 1 or 2 ‘issue holders’.
Expertly facilitated through a cycle of listening, questioning, reflection and commitment to practical action – crucially allowing space and time for thinking.

Encouraging staff to participate in Action Learning Sets will support the organisation in:

Increasing collaboration across the organisation to explore and resolve workplace issues.
Growing an inclusive culture of psychological safety creating an environment for interpersonal risk taking.
Building capabilities and skills in relation to:
- problem solving
- decision making
- prioritisation
Developing coaching skills amongst staff.

For individual participants, the purpose of attending an Action Learning Set is to:

Provide an opportunity to take a reflective pause from the busy demands of everyday work.
Support personal growth, development and wellbeing.
Connect and build trusting relationships with colleagues from other parts of the organisation.
Develop and put into practice transferrable coaching skills in asking open catalytic questions, active listening, reflecting back what is heard and demonstrating empathy in order to deepen understanding of self and others, reframe issues and provide clarity for action.
Empower resourcefulness in finding own solutions to professional challenges and commit to take action within a compassionate and inspiring learning environment.
Participate in an open, safe, non-threatening and confidential space in which staff can expect supportive challenge to help to make sustainable changes in professional behaviour.

Each 90-minute Action Learning Set has an 8-step process:

Introduction/check-in.
Reflection round - actions and learning since last session.
Bidding round - bidding to be the presenter of the issue which will be discussed at this session.
Presenter round - Issue holder presents their challenge without interruption (5-10 minutes).
Questioning round - members ask questions to open up thinking (30 – 40 minutes).
Feedback and reflection round – Reflections by all members on own learning & feedback to issue holder.
Presenter’s action round - Issue holder reflects on action they will take on their issue before the next session.
Process review of the Action Learning Set and improvements for next time.

Please get in touch to discuss the needs of your organisation and how Action Learning Sets could support in achieving these.

I can facilitate these virtually or in person depending on your location.

Prices start from £1,800 for an expertly facilitated Action Learning Set with up to 6 participants meeting 6 times over approximately 6 months.

This is equivalent to £300 per participant for all 6 sessions if the group is full.

I will provide a facilitator’s report to the organisation summarising the key themes and learning arising from the Action Learning Set, without breaching individual confidentiality.