17/10/05
_____
17/10/05
_____
17 Oct 2005
Andy requested that OnTrack International, a key outsource training provider and NMI client to create a range of short energising activities supporting his presentation of a new vision for his training department at RBS.The 23 delegates for this 1½ day programme would comprise senior managers, 1st line reports and rising stars that are marked for promotion. 30:70 men / women all with many years experience in training development and practical delivery.
Pennard Hill Farm was selected as a venue that offers a magnificent setting with luxury accommodations whilst remaining peaceful and homely. Unlike luxury hotels or stately home this venue provides plentiful space that encourages you to relax and take time out for reflection and to just breathe. Given the potentially significant changes that delegates are going to be asked to manage this type of platform provides a distinct advantage.
The Solution
Delegates arrived at Bristol airport inevitably anxious and with limited details of the programme. On the short coach ride to Pennard Farm the safety briefing relieved pressure (the rumoured commando assault course was dispelled). Disembarking at the spectacular farmhouse further helped bring anxiety down to nearly pensive.
The 1st programme of the day was for Andy to clearly re state the current situation defining exactly how the current status quo is not leading to the desired outcomes RBS need. That change is both needed and inevitable and then to gain commitment and support from his team.
Delegates left this 1st session feeling understandably challenged or in some cases shocked and anxious. Our 1st energiser broke more than just ice. Stumbling around blindfolded in a maze brought out co-dependence, communication, humour and support. This simple game had brought everyone together in a way that would have taken many hours in an office.
Next Andy introduced his vision of the future, by selecting an outdoor setting delegates literally felt that the walls and ceiling had been taken away!
Six core theme’s were agreed as being clear ways of pursuing the changes necessary and these would become the vehicle that would help deliver change throughout the department.
This time delegates where energised by the end of their session and needed time to reflect on what had just been agreed, some alone and some in small groups. After a suitable period when a break was needed, we introduced the next activity. This could only be achieved through cooperation of participant teams. Our delegates performed fantastically, clearly a lot of them spend too much of their time thinking up fiendish games – (hang on what’s wrong with that)?. Anyway they actually set a new top score.
The open session continued into the evening until a magnificent BBQ at sundown.
Day 2.
Delegates awoke to a day of English weather at its best (rain at 60º). Perfect conditions for the fiendish Pennard Challenge, combining mental and physical navigation with prisoner’s dilemma consequences plus treasure to find. 4 x 4’s, navigating tiny row boat (blind folded), romping through fields, sheep herding and generally giggling like children all the time. Everyone got soaked and had a fantastic time (Thanks ladies for wearing white outfits).
Results
What did RBS take away from this event? Hopefully this email received the following week answers best:
“Well where do you start!! What an awesome experience"!
"Just wanted to say a massive thank you for making our Event such a huge success. The feedback I've had so far is unbelievable! I can't thank you enough for making us all so welcome, your hard work/ support and always going the extra mile”.
“Andy and I are buzzing from the event and totally inspired. Everyone has learnt loads and we all have some tremendous memories, which we'll not forget”.
_____
