The Great Outdoor Qualifications Debate took place at The Outdoors Show on Thursday 13th January 2011. The panel of outdoor employers, training providers and representatives from national bodies debated the latest developments in outdoor training and qualifications. They also answered questions put forward by other employers, students and outdoor sector workers in the audience. Topics covered included issues relating to Apprenticeships, national governing body (NGB) awards, NVQs,
Degrees and National Occupational Standards. Panel members included:

Andy Say, Executive Secretary, MLTE
Peter Thompson, UK Outdoors Manager, SkillsActive
Bronte Turner, Employer Services Manager , National Apprenticeship Service
Rob Clark, Director, Rockley Watersports
Giles Smith, Learning & Development Manager, PGL Travel
Mike Jones, Operations Manager, Calshot Activities Centre
Ivor Lewis, Plumpton College, University of Brighton

The event was chaired by Andrew Bird from OutdoorStaff.co.uk and sponsored by
Activities Industry Mutual.