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Empowering Outdoor Education: A Spotlight on Samantha Pennells-Ingle

Writer's picture: SA AIASA AIA
Samantha Pennells-Ingle

For Samantha Pennells-Ingle, outdoor education is more than just a profession—it’s a passion that fuels her every step. As an accredited ARA trainer and a leader in facilitator and leadership development, she has dedicated her career to shaping the future of adventure-based learning. With years of experience in the Experiential Education and Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) sector, Samantha believes in the transformative power of outdoor experiences and the impact they have on both facilitators and participants.


"I hold and have very strong values. I do this because I love seeing people develop. I have and never will withhold anything. I carry my name very high in the industry I work in and will never desecrate my own name, standards, or values," she says. This deep commitment to integrity, professionalism, and mentorship has made her one of the most respected voices in the industry.


Bridging the Gaps in Outdoor Education


While the outdoor education sector is thriving, Samantha has recognized several challenges that hinder the growth and professionalization of facilitators. Many individuals enter the field with enthusiasm but often find it difficult to build a sustainable career. The lack of clear career pathways and structured professional development leaves many facilitators uncertain about their future in the industry.


Another challenge is the accessibility of training. While training is crucial, it remains out of reach for many due to financial constraints and geographical limitations. Samantha has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for facilitators to upskill and gain the necessary certifications to build credibility in their work.


One of the biggest concerns in the industry is the lack of consistent standards across different training providers. While outdoor education plays a critical role in leadership and youth development, there is still a need to ensure quality, accountability, and alignment with best practices. Samantha’s work focuses on establishing professional benchmarks, ensuring that facilitators and adventure educators are equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and ethical standards.


Leading with Integrity and Passion


At the heart of Samantha’s work is her unwavering belief in the power of mentorship and knowledge-sharing. She sees facilitation as a role that goes beyond merely guiding an experience; it is about helping people grow, supporting them in their journey, and equipping them with tools for success.


Her approach to training is deeply rooted in trust and openness. She believes that good trainers should never withhold knowledge but instead empower others to learn and grow. This philosophy has shaped her as a mentor, as she actively contributes to the development of facilitators across different adventure and education spaces.


"For me, it’s about giving back, developing others, and upholding a standard of excellence. The impact we have on others is what matters most," she explains. Her dedication to upholding professional values has made her a highly respected figure in the industry, known for setting high standards while fostering an environment of support and encouragement.


A Vision for the Future of Experiential Education


Samantha’s vision for the future of experiential education is one where facilitators are recognized as professionals, training is more accessible, and career pathways are well-structured. She believes that through collaboration, mentorship, and continued learning, the industry can grow into a well-established profession with clear standards and expectations.


She sees a future where facilitators receive the recognition they deserve, where their contributions are valued and respected not only within the industry but by the broader public as well. Through structured training programs, professional development initiatives, and advocacy, she hopes to continue shaping the next generation of outdoor leaders.


Final Thoughts: Advice for Aspiring Facilitators


For those considering a career in outdoor education and facilitation, Samantha has one key piece of advice: never stop learning and growing. She believes that the most successful facilitators are those who remain open to new experiences, actively seek knowledge, and strive for excellence in everything they do.


"Keep learning, keep growing, and never stop sharing. Your impact is greater than you think. Always strive for excellence, and lead with integrity," she says.


As experiential education continues to evolve, leaders like Samantha are paving the way for a more structured, professional, and impactful industry. Her dedication to mentorship, training, and professional development is not only changing the lives of individual facilitators but is also shaping the future of adventure-based learning as a whole.


We are glad to have her as a member of SA AIA and look forward to working with her to create positive change in the LOTC industry.


Join the Movement

If you're an LOTC practitioner, adventure educator, or facilitator looking to grow your career, connect with SA AIA for recognition, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Check out our website to learn more and become a member today!

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