Growing Natural Leaders

The Programme

Each year we work with a selection of 18+  year old individuals who can demonstrate a track record and  commitment to positive change for the environment and sustainable living.  Our aim is to help develop informed leaders for the future who understand, and believe in, the need to find balance between the needs of humans and nature in order to ensure a sustainable future for ourselves and the planet.

For many,  it is enough just to understand and to find intellectual solutions to problems.  For Sirius it is important to not only understand, but to feel , make connections, and take action. We link the head, heart and hand of the scholar to empower them to go back home and make a difference, using the new ideas and emotions they have experienced.

The model is developed whilst taking part in a wilderness journey. We work in the wildest parts of this island and most journeys consist of a canoe or foot based trail, carrying all one needs in back packs or canoe barrels. We follow strict ethics of Leave No Trace, ensuring we respect the areas we visit and leave only our foot prints on. We wild camp for three nights with two nights in residential accommodation.

All food is locally sourced as far as possible, all waste recycled, all transport as sustainable as can be with train travel being encouraged.

By spending time in nature, having time for facilitated conversations with Sirius guide/leaders, and time for self through solo periods on the hills – a connection to nature grows and is felt in all who take part.

The call of the oyster catcher, the touch of the rain, the whistle of the wind, the lap of water, crunch of glistening stones on the beach, flapping canvas, bring us back to earth juxtaposed with  busy lives and schedules back home.

Towards the end of the wilderness journey, time is given to develop the project ideas that were put forward by the scholars as part of their selection, and post Sirius trail they are supported by  their peers, as well as external mentors.

Each trail has two wilderness guides and a Sirius Leader. Between them they deliver the wilderness experience, the facilitation of the group and help support each scholar with their project and future plans. A Dragons Den in the communal tent  is a new idea that has worked to focus minds and hearts on what project will take seed and grow.

Sirius offers:

• Six days as a part of a group of like-minded people in splendid isolation, either canoeing or trekking in a stunningly beautiful part of Scotland.
• Time to experience and reflect on a connection to the natural world.
• Work with experienced wilderness guides and facilitators exploring your  values and passion.
• Enhance personal and professional knowledge of sustainability and environmental issues.
• Develop your  leadership skills, courage to push for change and resilience.
• Launch a project that you wish to implement, with personalised coaching support to help you “be the change”.

Eligibility for the scholarship is as follows:

• Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the environment and sustainability
• Complete a formal application and be interviewed about their application and project proposal.
• You must be prepared to champion the cause and encourage new thinking in your institution/community.
• Complete their project on their return in an agreed amount of time.

To request an application pack please email us