New Outdoor Leadership Programme Launched to Boost Employability

A new initiative aimed at increasing employability and confidence in the outdoors has been launched through South Ayrshire Council's Leadership Education Adventure Programme (LEAP).

The programme was developed through a partnership between Dolphin House Education Centre and The Outdoor Partnership.

LEAP offers individuals a unique opportunity to gain industry standard qualifications, develop transferable skills and experience a positive supportive learning environment in the outdoors.

The 12-week programme was launched in April 2025 and was delivered to 12 senior pupils from Carrick Academy and Girvan Academy.

During the programme, participants engaged in a wide range of activities including leadership development, coaching, practical awards and qualifications, and outdoor experiences. Experienced instructors were on hand throughout the duration of the programme to support participants with building confidence and resilience in a natural outdoor setting.

Participants also benefited greatly from use of the River Ayr access steps, which were opened in early 2024 by South Ayrshire Council's Thriving Communities team, as this enabled the programme to include various types of water sport activities for participants to expand their knowledge and experience on. A second group of participants are due to begin the programme in September 2025.

Councillor William Grant, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Education said: "The Outdoor Leadership Programme is a fantastic initiative which allows young people to reap the benefits of learning and developing key skills that will hold them in good stead as they leave education and progress into employment."

Councillor Chris Cullen, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Economic Development said: "Initiatives like LEAP are a great example of how we can strengthen our communities by providing opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all. It's great to see the programme is encouraging and supporting participants as they prepare to enter employment within a wide range of industries and career paths."