Action Learning Facilitation, Education & Change

Louise Donaghy, Dean of York St.John University London with Dr Richard Hale & Dr Alex Morgan.

An innovative programme and qualification designed for those passionate about guiding their teams and organisations through collaborative learning experiences that lead to real, actionable outcomes for self, teams, organisations, and society.

Value Improvement Projects have partnered with York St. John University London to make this higher education qualification accessible to work-based learners and professionals who are facilitators of change. Based on the Action Learning Question method, developed over 25 years and proven across business, government and community sectors.

Your current job role requires you to mobilise groups and teams to research real world challenges and to take action and learn through effective collaboration. You may be a consultant or organisation-based agent of change looking to build your expertise beyond instruction and knowledge delivery. This programme enables you to define your research question as a facilitator or coach such as:

  • How can I support teams to facing into the unknown?
  • What is my role as a facilitator when established project methodologies and presentations aren’t cutting it?
  • How can I support teams to shift beyond decisions to action?
  • How can I enable team members and stakeholders to communicate what they are really thinking?
  • How can I enable integration of human value with AI development across our future product and service offer?

You investigate your own Action Learning Facilitator Question with support of a coach and other programme members and build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your capability as a facilitator of Action Learning.

About this programme

The programme is for:

  • Organisation development specialists;
  • Change agents and consultants;
  • Business personal and team coaches;
  • Leadership and learning professionals;
  • Entrepreneurs in business start-up and growth;
  • Leaders and managers in business, public service, third sector and the community;
  • Programme and project managers.

Qualification
Successful completion earns the qualification – Postgraduate Certificate in Action Learning Facilitation and the right to use the post nominal PGCert. This is a full postgraduate qualification carrying 60 credits at level 7 from York St. John University based on the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) and Higher Education Framework for England. Graduation is held in November and March and ceremonies are held at London Guildhall. Completion also entitles graduates to use the Action Learning Question method in their work practice, subject to compliance over copyright and use of associated registered trademarks.

What is Action Learning?
We see Action Learning as a key learning relationship alongside coaching and mentoring that is essential for working collaboratively on projects, human and business challenges for which there is not yet a known solution. Along with coaching skills, action learning requires a ‘learning relationships’ mind-set and skill-set. Action learning is based on one of the few proven theories of management learning that challenges traditional educational methods. Learning starts with understanding a real business challenge and through powerful questioning methods conducting research in order to inform action that results in measurable change. So theory follows the action and questioning takes priority over teaching of content. We believe there is no learning without action and no action without learning.

Aims of the Programme
The programme enables participants to:

  • Deliver a return on investment from change programmes;
  • Gain confidence in facilitating deeper levels of inquiry and problem-solving;
  • Build capability in tackling complexity, uncertainty and ambiguity;
  • Develop their craft in working with challenging group dynamics;
  • Become a catalyst for personal, team and organisational learning.
+ - Module 1 – Action Learning Question (LDV7000M) | 40 Credits | FHEQ Level 7 Click to collapse
Timetabled contact: 32 hours over a period of 4–6 months
Module Leaders: Dr Richard Hale, Dr Alexandra Morgan, Shell Richards

Module Aims

This module is designed to support learners in developing their ability to understand and apply the Action Learning Question (ALQ) approach to tackle personal, team, and real-world organisational challenges and opportunities. It is underpinned by the philosophy of Action Learning as articulated in the ALQ method, supported by research and reflective practice methods.

Learners participate in 4 x 2-hour online workshops, guided reading, exercises, coaching, and Action Learning Sets (ALS). They develop and work through a real-world ALQ, conduct research, analyse findings, and reflect on impact and learning throughout the module via an Action Learning Journal.

Participants also learn to facilitate an Action Learning Set or group themselves.

Module Assessment

  • Portfolio – Completed ALQ Journal
  • Presentation – ALQ Impact and Learning

Module Workshop Content

Principles of Action Learning
  • Context and basis of Action Learning (AL)
  • Working with different learning style preferences
  • How AL contributes to individual and organisational development
  • The 3 key roles that make AL sustainable
  • Establishing the Action Learning Set for success
  • The Action Learning Question (ALQ) system
Facilitating Action Learning
  • Facilitation skills, coaching-style questions, and co-consulting
  • Managing challenging situations
  • Range of intervention methods
  • Problem-solving tools
  • Knowledge Mapping – theory meets practice
Impact of Action Learning
  • Role of emotion in AL
  • Organisational/systemic impact
  • Systemic failure – can AL prevent it?
  • Coaching skills for AL
  • Supporting EDI through AL
  • Enabling change: personal, team, organisational
Reflection on Personal Learning
  • Overcoming inertia – enabling action
  • Working with vulnerability in ALS
  • Reflective account of your learning journey
  • Meeting the criteria for an Action Learning Facilitator
+ - Module 2 – Self as an Instrument of Change (LDV7001M) | 20 Credits | FHEQ Level 7 Click to collapse
Timetabled contact: 18 hours over 4 months
Module Leaders: Dr Suzzie Aidoo, Lola Owolabi

Module Aims

This module helps learners develop self-awareness and confidence, becoming reflective practitioners and effective coaching-style leaders. It supports self-discovery, understanding of learning relationships, and applying research to live issues.

It includes two one-day workshops at York St. John University London campus and two 1-hour 1:1 sessions to explore personal DISC profiles.

Module Assessment

  • Portfolio – Evidence of growth and learning
  • Written Work – Critical reflective essay (1,500 words)

Module Workshop Content

DISC Personality Profiling
  • Understanding Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness (DISC)
  • Applying the profile to personal and professional growth
  • Recording reflections in PebblePad
  • Building resilience and awareness
Coaching Style and Growth
  • Exploring coaching models and learning methodologies
  • Developing authentic leadership through values and behaviour
Creation of Research-Informed Solutions
  • Reviewing the Action Learning journey: Scoping, Knowledge Mapping, Action, Impact, Learning
  • Feed-forward planning for ongoing development
  • Applying personal diagnostics (DISC) and Action Learning Journals
  • Demonstrating critical self-awareness and personal growth
 

Entry Requirements

You will come to the programme with a real opportunity to use the Action Learning and coaching approach in your work, organisation, business or practice. You will need to prioritise attendance at the workshop and ALS sessions, both online and in-person to ensure full participation. The programme is at postgraduate level and requires completion of the ALQ Journal/Portfolio, delivery of a presentation of learning and writing of a learning summary essay. Reasonable adjustments will be made to support participants with specific learning needs.

Prior qualifications are not a pre-requisite; however, you will have professional experience and may have qualifications in fields such as Leadership, Learning & Development, Organisation Development, Change Management, Programme/Project Management, HRD.

We support the York St. John University principles of encouraging broadening of access to higher education programmes and qualification based on inclusivity rather than exclusion. We recognise diversity in learning style preferences and have designed into the programme the facility for participants to evidence their learning using a variety of methods beyond written assignments, so including presentations, discussion, peer feedback and portfolio development.

Fees and funding

GBP £3,960.00 invoiced once application has been accepted, confirmed in writing and payable before the start date of the programme cohort (following receipt of an invoice from Value Improvement Projects Ltd).

This fee includes delivery of Module 1 by Value Improvement Projects Ltd (including VAT at the prevailing rate in the UK) and Module 2 by York St. John University London. Participants are responsible for any additional costs, such as travel, related to in-person workshop attendance.

Please refer to the Terms & Conditions of Programme for further information.

Timetable & Deadlines

Cohort 2 – October 2025 – May 2026

ActivityDateDuration/TimeLocation
Start-up induction 13th Oct 2025 14:00 - 16:00 Online
Module 1 – Workshop 1 3rd Nov 2025 10:00 - 13:00 Online
Action Learning Set Nov 2025 2 Hours Online or in person
Module 1 – Workshop 2 Dec 2025 3 Hours Online
Action Learning Set Dec 2025 2 Hours Online or in person
Module 1 – Workshop 3 Jan 2026 3 Hours Online
Action Learning Set Feb 2026 2 Hours Online or in person
Module 1 – Workshop 4 & Presentations Feb 2026 3 Hours Online
Action Learning Set March 2026 2 Hours Online or in person
Submission of ALF Journal 20th March 2026 – –
Registration with YSJ London By 31st March 2026 – –
Module 2 – Workshop 1 30th April 2026 09:30–16:00 09:30–16:00 YSJ Uni London
Module 2 – DISC Profile Coaching May – June 2026 2x 1 Hour –
Module 2 – Workshop 2 24th July 2026 09:30–16:00 09:30–16:00 YSJ Uni London
Submission of Portfolio & Essay By 31st August 2026 – –
Graduation November 2026 – Guildhall London

Note: Dates are subject to change and updates will be posted here.

Application Support and Deadlines

Got questions before applying?

  • Email a faculty adviser for a 1-to-1: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Complete the Expressions of Interest form here
  • Join an online Q&A session (link TBC)
  • Attend our Open Morning:
    Friday 5th September 2025, 10:00–13:00 York St. John University London Campus (Eventbrite link to be notified)

We encourage early applications, as spaces are limited.
Applications close: Tuesday 16th September 2025
Programme start: 13th October 2025

Testimonials

“Action Learning Facilitation helps with both soft and hard influencing skills”

“It definitely improves ways of working”

“It helps foster participation by encouraging quieter voices and managing discussions effectively”

“Learning how to contract effectively with a group is critical”

“Action Learning helps get to the crux of an issue through insightful questioning”

“Through knowledge mapping, I noticed the importance of the underground, in other words exploring what people really think and feel”

“Action Learning develops both emotion and intellect”

“Action Learning proves that many minds make more effective decisions”

“Sharing lived experience is so valuable”

“Action Learning is about empowerment, mutual support and a shared sense of purpose”

“Action Learning supports the tackling of wicked problems”

“It definitely improves ways of working”

“It helps foster participation by encouraging quieter voices and managing discussions effectively”

“Learning how to contract effectively with a group is critical”

Programme Faculty

Richard
Dr Richard Hale FRSA BA (Hons) MA DMgt FCIPD
 Suzzi
Dr Suzzie Aidoo MSc PhD ACII
 Suzzi
Shell Richards BA (Hons) MSc MA PGCE FRSA
 saima ahmed
Saima Ahmed BA (hons)
 lola owolabi
Lola Owolabi FRSA FinstLM MA

Armed Forces, Veterans, Reservists

  • Leaving the Forces and looking for a new mission?
  • Need to translate your skills into a market ready qualification that will get you through the CV sift?
  • Ready to translate your SQEP into Postgraduate credentials?
  • Retiring OR or Officer with more to give?
  • Qualified for leadership but looking to put your skills in action in business?
  • Ready to set yourself apart from the crowd for promotion or transition?

The Action Learning Facilitator Accreditation (ALFA) programme will give you access to a supportive squad as you transition your hard-earned skills from your military career into Civvy Street roles such as project management and consultancy. You will realise how your qualities of leadership, integrity and action focus are a real asset in the world of business, government and community organisations.

We are signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant and ELCAS Registered (Provider 14416) so you have the opportunity to make valuable use of your funding entitlement.

We have partnered with the Forces Transition Group, enabling access to considerable career transition and job search resources connecting to the business sector.

We are your programme coaches, mentors and are with you for the whole journey and support you as you take the next steps. Hear from our programme leader Major Shell Richards, seen here with ALFA founder Dr Richard Hale. Shell discusses how ALFA helped her make the transition.

Employers may also wish to discuss how we offer the programme as a ‘train to hire’ facility.

Dr Richard Hale and Major Shell Richards
armed forces