Personal Profile
Accredited Practitioner Achiever - DAVID SAMPSON
Who are you?
David Sampson, Birmingham
What was your first experience of outdoor activities?
My parents had a very small basic hut in the Craigieburn Range, NZ. Required a 2 mile walk round the valley from the car park. Experiences started before I could walk. Used in the summer and winter. Walked (tramped), climbed mountains (still have vivid memories climbing Mt. Rolleston in Arthur’s Pass with my dad aged 8/9), skied and camped as a family. What a perfect upbringing for hyperactive kid like me.
Your most enjoyable day at work providing outdoor learning?
There have been so many however a powerful one that brought back very fond memories was running a outdoor programme I developed for youngsters who had cancer. The experiences and fun certainly impacted on their outlook on life, independence and confidence- they realised what they could do. A letter from a mum started with ‘What have you done to my child? She’s thrown away her crutches…..,’ You can probably guess the rest. For some it was literally their last wonderful and memorable experience before they lost the battle with cancer.
Where do you see your outdoor career eventually going?
One of my goals was to be in a supportive / advisory role where I could use my many years experience as a practitioner and teacher specialising in outdoor learning to promote, train, enthuse, create and show the value/benefits of outdoor learning. I also realise the importance in staying connected to the outdoor environment practically and maintaining that work with young people so achieving this balance is the key.
Outdoor learning might be your career, but how much of your spare time is spent in the outdoors?
As much as possible. Got to make the personal time though. Adventure is important whatever you do to re energise which is important to be able to give the energy. Seemed to have mellowed recently and feel in need of a good expedition.
What is your most invaluable piece of kit/gear?
Tricky – Oh for a laugh my merino base layers, had to say that as a kiwi.
What influence has APIOL had on your career?
Made me realise the influence my experiences have had on my career, values and practice - a way of pulling all the threads together. It also broadened my outlook and gave a process to look, reflect and respect all aspects of outdoor learning.
If you could offer one piece of advice to new outdoor practitioners what would it be?
Enjoy. Get that balance right – make time for yourself and keep that passion alive. Look after yourself and body so you can continue and enjoy as long as possible. Grab and make the most of the opportunities and your time on earth.
And Finally.....
Cake or pie?
Both in the right proportions
Discover how to become an APIOL Achiever HERE