Personal Profile
Accredited Practitioner Achiever - PAUL ETHERIDGE
Who are you?
Paul Etheridge (known as Billy), Warwickshire.
What was your first experience of outdoor activities?
As a Cub Scout, I was always the mischievous one who got dirty and played tricks on everyone, but in the outdoor environment this was the first time it was accepted and not punished it enthused me to take this ‘real education further’.
Your most enjoyable day at work providing outdoor learning?
As a male employee whilst working for Girl Guiding UK, I was involved in a display stand at the Outdoors Show. We encouraged young girls to take part in wilderness skills and outdoor activities and were able dispel many myths surrounding Girl Guiding.
Where do you see your outdoor career eventually going?
Bringing experiential learning to life. As a lecturer I would like to develop a ‘real learning’ syllabus that is used in conjunction with the national curriculum. I know the importance of education in a real context which in my opinions is not necessarily in a class room.
Outdoor learning might be your career, but how much of your spare time is spent in the outdoors?
I try to fill everyday with some element, having a lively dog to walk helps this. But it is also important to me not to become blinkered or submerged in the outdoors. As a lecturer you need to be rounded and understand what young people have to compete with, and being in the outdoors everyday does not necessary allow this.
What is your most invaluable piece of kit/gear?
Me! I was a real gear freak, having the latest in everything, but after a serious accident I realised the only thing you need is ‘knowledge'. It is so precious and can not be broken or lost. I try to learn something everyday either from those more experienced than me or from my learners who continue to enrich my life.
What influence has APIOL had on your career?
Gaining my APIOL has given me a great deal of confidence in my abiliyt, Before meeting my mentor I was not sure that I was really experienced enough to share my knowledge, but he was really supportive and found my experiences and stories really interesting, which gave me confidence to develop.
If you could offer one piece of advice to new outdoor practitioners what would it be?
Keep learning – You will NEVER know enough.
And Finally.....
Cake or pie?
Cake – Carrot cake or Victoria sponge from the café in Ingleton.