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The Columban Coracle Programme
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17 December 2008

The Columba 1400 Coracle Programme is a leadership experience which brings together groups of people from all parts of our community. Drawing on the Columba Code of Responsible Leadership, the group reflects on the personal values that guide them, practice suspending judgement, about themselves and others, and take time to listen to everyone’s voice, including their own, all in a supportive learning environment. Working with what divides us, releasing insight and learning that often goes untapped, the Coracle is a unique opportunity to contribute to your own personal growth and to those of all ages around you.

For those considering attending a programme, here are some comments from those who have had the experience of working together on a Coracle.  

Ann, DHT, East Ayrshire:
"GO FOR IT!! - Take an open mind and a willingness " to go with the flow".  The Coracle is such a unique, "safe" opportunity to take time out to think about you and what's important to you now.  The diversityof the group makes the total experience so much richer - get as much as you can from that diversity, and put as much as you can into it!!"

Craig RBS corporate, London:
“Two words can probably sum it up preparing for the Coracle - anxious and excited.  It's a bit like the first time you do anything new (ride a rollercoaster, go to a place you have never been before) - you're a little bit anxious and scared but at the same time you are looking forward to learning something new and seeing if it will take you somewhere different.” 
 

Sandra, Scottish Exec, Edinburgh
“Go in with an open mind. Don't expect your usual leadership course that teaches you techniques and tools to be a 'good leader'. Be prepared to be challenged and to spend time reflecting on the things that are important to you and the things that make you who you are. Be prepared to laugh and cry in a way you probably haven't done for a long time! Be prepared to have the most amazing experience and to meet the most amazing people and just go for it!”

“The Coracle was the most amazing personal journey and something I will never forget. It was a challenge both emotionally and for me physically but one I wouldn't have missed and one that has affected everything I've done since”.

Our last Coracle of the year saw a volunteer working alongside the Coracle as part of the Columba1400 facilitation team. Here is a little of what May, a graduate from our Young People’s Leadership Academy, had to say about the experience:

“Remember how special and valued you are to have the chance to volunteer. You are very important to the week, for the staff and for the group! You can make the difference and get alongside the group. Also keep in mind to take time out for yourself, this is the next stage of your journey.”

Read more about May’s journey.

Getting involved

Gathering

There will be a Coracle gathering on the 20th February 2009 and we anticipate many of our Gemini/Coracle graduates will attend to share their learning journeys and experiences. If you would like to invite friends or colleagues along to hear more about the programme we look forward to hearing from you.

New Community Coracle

If you would like to explore what our new Community Coracle might mean for you and your local community with all the possibilities that bringing together a diverse community group might realise, please do contact us and begin the conversation now.