Events
Action Learning Sets - Expression of Interest
Would you like to join a Pears Foundation Action Learning Set?
Since 2017, Pears Foundation has been running Action Learning Sets for Pears grantees. We are pleased to invite expressions of interest for our next round of sets.
What is action learning?
An Action Learning Set is a small group of peers who meet regularly with a facilitator to work on real, live challenges or opportunities from their professional practice.
Each session follows a simple and well-established structure: one member presents an issue they are facing; the group listens and asks open, reflective questions; and the person who has presented then reflects, responds and comes up with an action plan. The next time the group meets, the presenter reports back on their progress and develops a new plan if needed.
Action Learning Sets provide a structured, supportive, and confidential space, helping participants to:
- Carve out time and space for reflection
- Receive support and constructive challenge from peers
- Develop personally and professionally
Many participants also value the strong relationships and trusted peer networks that develop over the course of a set.
How do Pears action learning sets work?
Each set brings together peers working at similar levels of responsibility. Groups meet every four to six weeks over a six-month period, for a total of six facilitated sessions. Sets typically meet in person at the Pears Hub, or begin and end with face-to-face meetings with online sessions in between. Our experience is that in-person meetings work particularly well for building trust and creating the space needed for reflection and support.
At the end of the facilitated programme, groups have the option to continue meeting as a self-facilitated set, with a check-in session with Sonja after a few meetings.
Expressions of interest
To help us create well-balanced Action Learning Sets, we are inviting expressions of interest at this stage. This opportunity is open to all Pears grantees, at any level of seniority.
Following this, we will aim to form groups with broadly similar levels of responsibility to ensure a supportive and relevant peer learning experience. While we will do our best to accommodate as many people as possible, we may not be able to offer a place to everyone who expresses interest.
Please click the button at the top of the page (Book Now) to let us know by Tuesday May 12th if you would like to join a set.