© Robert Anasch

Where small groups meet regularly to reflect on real work issues then take action

The basic philosophy is that the most effective learning takes place when we are faced with a real problem which we need to solve.

Action Learning is  an exciting and rewarding process of collaborative learning that works in a range of settings – both within and across organisations.

Testimonial

Peta is a pleasure to work with. Her professional and personable approach towards her work and her clients ensures very high standards and objectives are met, which provides me as the client with full confidence in her ability to deliver.

Astrid Kirchener
Head of Learning and Leadership Development EMEA Enterprise, Bank of America Merill Lynch

Testimonial from a set member

A huge thanks from all of us for the Action Learning session you ran for us yesterday. Many of us had not attended an action learning set before and all found it very powerful and gained so much from it

Norah Al-Ani
Director Cambridge Rape Crisis Centre

Testimonial from a set member

 

I think people can learn from the sort of reflective practice [action learning] offers, [it helps] people to listen and ask open questions of themselves and others around them; all in all I think it makes you a better colleague.

Action Learnig Set member
Lloyds Bank Foundation Criminal Justice Programme

testimonial from a set member

The facilitator was very inclusive and encouraged us all to embrace the ideas behind action learning sets. This meant I gained a lot from it. Every session was enjoyable and worthwhile and I really looked forward to it each month.

I have found the sessions really helpful and it has changed the way I have been working.

 

Action Learning Set member
Lloyds Bank Foundation Criminal Justice Programme

testimonial from a set member

Action learning has been very helpful. It has helped me transition into my new role and, as I don’t currently manage anyone, helped me brush up the coaching skills I have previously been trained on and used. Both from my own air time and reflecting on other people’s, it has helped me work more productively and tackle issues proactively rather than procrastinating. I’ve also reflected on team dynamics and I hope it has made me more empathetic and improved the way I respond to colleagues.

set member
Lloyds Bank Foundation Criminal Justice Programme

Background

Action Learning involves working on real problems, focusing on learning and actually implementing solutions. It is a form of learning by doing, with the input and support of peers.

Pioneered by Professor Reg Revans and developed worldwide since the late 1940s, Action Learning provides a well-tried method of accelerating learning that enables people to handle complex issues more effectively.

An ILM accredited facilitator, I have facilitated Action Learning sets in different environments, including those for managers within the Children and Young People’s Service at Lambeth Council; for participants on the Institute of Chartered Accountants F-Ten leadership development programme; and for Lloyds Bank Foundation programme participants.

“Anyone with gumption and a sharp mind will take the measure of two things: what’s said  and what’s done.”

Seamus Heaney

Action Learning case studies

Lloyds Bank Foundation work with small and local charities helping people overcome complex social issues. Peta Sweet facilitated several action learning sets between 2020  and 2024

Find out more 🡒

The Institute of Chartered Accountants is a membership organisation that supports chartered accountants. Sweetie delivered action learning sets for their new F-Ten leaders programme.

Find out more 🡒