Bagnalls Management Trainees Take On Outward-Bound Challenge

Bagnalls’ Management Trainees have successfully completed an inspiring outward-bound development programme at Brathay Trust in Ambleside, located in the heart of the Lake District.

Founded in 1946, Brathay Trust has a long-standing reputation for empowering young people through transformative outdoor learning, personal development and community support. The organisation is working towards an ambitious goal of inspiring more than 40,000 young people to transform their lives by 2029.

Recognising the value of experiential learning, Bagnalls enrolled its Management Trainees in the multi-day programme to strengthen leadership, communication and teamwork skills. The experience was supported by Bagnalls’ HR Learning and Development Advisor, Kirsty Stokes, who accompanied the trainees throughout the programme.

During their time at Brathay, the trainees took part in a range of challenging activities designed to push them beyond their comfort zones and encourage reflection and growth, both individually and as a team. Activities included high and low ropes courses, waterfall scrambling and a night-time scavenger hunt aboard a whaler boat, all aimed at building trust, resilience and effective collaboration under pressure.

Kirsty Stokes said:  “Even in my supportive role on the trip, I found myself doing things I wouldn’t have had the confidence to attempt a few years ago."

"It was a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about being willing to learn, adapt and challenge yourself alongside your team.”

Bagnalls extends its sincere thanks to Cath Hempsall and the team at Brathay Trust for delivering a memorable and impactful development experience. The programme has left a lasting impression on the trainees and will continue to support their growth as future leaders within the business.