ILM students reach the pinnacle of their studies

Participants on our level seven Institute of Leadership and Management Executive Diploma have scaled new heights as part of the 18-month programme run by freshbaked Corporate.

During the project management module, we took the students from a world leading chemical manufacturer Solutia UK Ltd part of Solutia inc to E2 Climbing and Activity Centre in the Taff Bargoed Valley in the Brecon Beacons to undertake experiential learning exercises.

Following the PRINCE (PRojects IN Controlled Environments) project management methodology, the candidates undertook a risk assessment of the climbing wall before tackling the 56ft ascent. They then took part in an orienteering exercise which focused on basic management processes, including leadership styles and teamwork principles.

Vanessa White, managing director of freshbaked Corporate, said: “The ability to retain learning is more powerful when it is applied. The exercises our delegates carried out engendered teamwork, leadership and decision making skills, all of which are fundamental to the ILM course. This collaboration with E2 has been so successful that we’re planning to roll out a similar day for all ILM programmes.”

The ILM level 7 course is equivalent to post-graduate level and aimed at developing leadership skills in senior managers.

Pauline Campbell, a participant on the course from Solutia, said: “It was great to do something totally different on the ILM course and I really enjoyed myself. I realised that I can really push myself out of my comfort zone especially with the support of a team.”

E2, The Welsh International Climbing and Activity Centre, delivers an adrenaline-soaked range of activities and has one of the largest indoor climbing walls in Europe.