Sue Geary, Youth Development and Outdoor Learning Lead at Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) has recently achieved recognition as an accredited practitioner with the Institute for Outdoor Learning (APIOL). This accomplishment also means that TSYT can offer accreditation (as a Registered Practitioner of Outdoor Learning) as a professional development opportunity to young people wanting to work in outdoor education.

Sue’s new accreditation comes after a rigorous process that spanned just under a year and included the submission of a comprehensive 32-page application. Her achievement not only highlights her commitment to outdoor learning but also to the broader mission of youth development through transformative experiences at sea. The qualification also strengthens her ability to coach and mentor young people, particularly those seeking accreditation within the Outdoor Learning sector.

As an IOL accredited practitioner, Sue is now equipped to mentor TSYT’s offshore crew, helping them deliver high-quality outdoor learning programmes that focus on personal growth, teamwork, and leadership skills for young people. In addition to her work at TSYT, Sue will also contribute to the IOL community, advocating for youth development and outdoor education within the maritime environment.

When asked about her decision to pursue this accreditation, Sue reflected on her motivation: “My motivation to apply came from my commitment to my own personal and professional development. My teaching career ingrained in me a reflective practice habit and the APIOL application process provided a hugely rewarding structure through which to reflect on my experience, knowledge and understanding of Outdoor Learning, the values and principles I uphold when working with young people and adults in the outdoors and also the way in which I can contribute to the Outdoor Learning sector.”

This achievement not only champions Sue’s role as a leading figure in the outdoor learning community but also enhances TSYT’s capacity to deliver pioneering programmes to young people, creating a lasting impact on participants and the youth development sector.