“The enjoyment of the hills should be experienced by everyone, especially the young, who can discover a lifelong passion for the natural world and a sense of adventure.” - Alfred Wainwright.

Introduction:

Every time I step into the great outdoors, the reasons that drove me to start Magnitude.biz become vivid and undeniable. It's not just a job or a business venture; it's a personal journey of passion and commitment to the environment and outdoor education. This personal connection, this journey, fuels my dedication and makes every endeavour meaningful.

My mission is not just about teaching skills; it's about inspiring a profound respect for nature and guiding businesses in creating transformative experiences. Striving for 'the best' isn’t just about service excellence and nurturing a deep connection with the environment and each individual we touch. We aim to inspire you to create your own transformative experiences.

Defining 'The Best' in Outdoor Education

For me, 'the best' in outdoor education transcends delivering enriching and enjoyable experiences—it's also about integrating these principles into business coaching for organisations within the outdoor sector. My commitment extends to providing safe, enjoyable, and adventurous experiences that inspire individuals and empower businesses to thrive in this unique environment. As an outdoor practitioner and business coach, I focus on creating spaces where enterprises, regardless of size or scope, feel equipped, valued, and capable of growth. But it's not just about growth; it's about doing so sustainably, understanding our responsibility towards the environment, and taking action.

The Dual Customer Journey: Participants and Buyer

I’ve seen first-hand how the impact of our programs extends beyond the participants to their families, schools, and communities. It’s not just about the child who comes home excited from a day in the forest; it’s also about the parent or educator who feels confident in the quality and value of the experience. Therefore, it's essential to consider carefully how we act with all our partners. We do this by, ensuring that everyone involved in our programs feels heard, valued, and satisfied with their experience.

Example of Stewardship and Environmental Impact

Just yesterday, 15th May 2024, as I led a group of enthusiastic young adventurers through a lush field, I noticed one of the youngsters accidentally drop a packet of crisps on the ground. Seeing the crisps on the ground sparked disappointment and resolve within me. Seizing the moment, I gathered the group to discuss why adhering to 'leave no trace' principles is crucial. These discussions are essential; they show our commitment to preserving nature and empower the next generation to be more mindful and proactive about their environmental impact. This commitment extends to our business practices, where we encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices and think creatively about their operations, fostering a culture of sustainability and innovation.

Inspirational Insight: Alfred Wainwright's Legacy

Alfred Wainwright has always been a hero of mine. His dedication to the Lake District and profound words remind us that the outdoors is for everyone. Most people know the quote, “There's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” However, few know the full quote, which continues: "The enjoyment of the hills should be experienced by everyone, especially the young, who can discover a lifelong passion for the natural world and a sense of adventure.” This mantra is something I carry with me, whether preparing families for a day hike or designing a new program.

Practical Strategies for Sustainable Practices

A large group of people arriving in a particularly delicate part of the environment will have a large impact. I know a few organisations encouraging participants to use public transportation and strategically locating activities near railway stations. This isn’t just logistically smart; it’s a statement of commitment to sustainability and respect for the natural world. I am convinced that we can all think of ways in which we can plan to reduce our impact on the environment.

Conclusion

You can't talk about being the best without thinking of Tina Turner singing “ The Best”, can you?

Striving for 'the best' in outdoor education is about much more than meeting benchmarks—it's about heart, commitment, and impact.

At Magnitude.biz, we’re passionate about leading, inspiring, teaching, and engaging in meaningful conservation. We believe that each individual and business has a role in shaping outdoor education's future. Join us as we work towards a future where outdoor education is a gateway to understanding and respecting our beautiful planet. By helping enterprises reach their full potential, we aim to inspire more people to appreciate and enjoy the natural world.