Testimonial 1

I signed up for the Springboard programme feeling very sceptical. Besides not knowing what to expect I also had doubts as to whether this would have a positive impact on my life at all. The only thing that did appeal to me was that the programme concentrated on personal development and was not work orientated. Prior to going onto the programme I’d hit a very negative stage in my job and on a personal level was feeling very frustrated with a ‘where to now’ feeling.

Clare & Angela immediately put our minds at rest and let us work through the programme at our own pace (reading through our work books was initially up to us), but finding no pressure made it easier and comfortable to take part and share in group discussions and make you want to keep up to ‘speed’ with our work books.

Having guest speakers at each session giving us an insight into their life story was really moving and made me realise that although we are different we all go through similar stories in life, the difference is how we handle it and this gave one thought of how to deal with issues in one’s own life.

Probably without me realising it my work situation started to change for the better, and due to me receiving a positive feedback this year it has spurred me on to set higher objectives for next year something I’d previously wouldn’t have done. I’m now a lot happier in my job, am more motivated, and have a positive approach to not only work but at a personal level as well.

Springboard ended up being my ‘springboard’ for life and was the start of a change within me, a change for the better, an exciting change and one that I’m looking forward to developing.

A big thank you to Clare & Angela who delivered an exciting and passionate programme!

Testimonial 2

Angela has excellent presentation skills and always produces motivational and powerful training. Whether your needs are one-on-one or a training conference for 200 people Angela delivers training that people react positively to and remember. I have no hesitation in recommending Angela whatever your training requirements. Angela is a valuable member of Haine & Smith's Senior Management Team.

Angela's experience with developing staff both individually and as a team is proven. Angela has excellent trouble-shooting skills, she gets to the root of the problem and then works with the staff to overcome any issues, she has had a powerful influence in turning around practices that were struggling with financial targets or staffing issues.

Testimonial 3

I was slightly apprehensive before the course began, as I wondered just what it entailed and what the other participants would be like. I need not have worried. Everyone was friendly and Clare put everyone at ease.

All the sessions had a really relaxed feel, despite being very structured. We covered themes such as knowing yourself, strengths and weaknesses, relationships, goal setting, assertiveness, image and networking. Everyone had an opportunity to contribute ideas and share experiences. We covered a lot of ground and it was intense at times, but there was a lot of laughter too! Clare did a terrific job at keeping everyone motivated and did this with a great deal of sensitivity.

One of the highlights was the guest speaker, where a woman would come in and talk about herself and how she got her current job. It made me realise that life can be full of ups and downs, but there is always some way of achieving your goal if you want it hard enough. As Clare stressed ‘That goal doesn’t have to be career related, but it can be personal to you’.

We also had to work through a workbook at home, which was soul searching at times, but a necessary part of the course as you have to be honest with yourself if you are to get anything from it.

What did I get from the course? I feel more confident and know that my opinions are valid. I’m not afraid ‘to give new things a go’ or volunteer for unfamiliar tasks. I am exploring career options, have obtained some freelance work and I am active on a PTA committee.

Perhaps the most valuable learning experience of all came from the other women on the course. They were of different ages and in varied jobs, but all had skills, interests and life experiences, which helped to inspire me. Clare herself was open about her own life and work and was very much a member of our group as well as being its leader.

I would recommend Springboard for any woman who is at a bit of a ‘crossroads’ in their life and needs to think about where they are going. It won’t give you answers, but it will give you ideas to explore in a supportive environment.

I would like to thank Clare for her encouragement and the personal interest she showed in us all, as well as making Springboard a lot of fun.

Testimonial 4

Carole designed a two day teambuilding event for my team that was interesting, innovative and fun. There was a good mixture of events combining theory and practice. The team found it challenging at times but Carole managed the event in relaxed but focussed environment ensuring that outcomes were met. We learned a lot about ourselves and the team which has helped us to understand each other and has ultimately improved the way the team works.

Testimonial 5

Thank you to Carole and Portfolio Learning. The suite of training you provided to my business has had a great impact both on the relationships within the team and those with our clients. It was great to get pragmatic solutions and the results have been well worth the investment.

Testimonial 6

Rob – Thank you for making our event so successful. It would never have happened without your expertise. People have been filing in and out of my office all day with feedback – all very positive. It has been a real pleasure to work with you.