I’m really excited that this week we are celebrating one year of our Training Academy, and the learning culture that we are creating here at the Jackson Lees Group.

In its first year, we have delivered 52 courses in house, which cover everything from technical training to courses such as ‘Self-confidence and Imposter Syndrome’, ‘Feel the Fear – Overcoming anxiety’, all the way to leadership courses such as ‘Learning to Lead’, and ‘From buddy to boss.’

Over 200 people in our business have attended at least one Academy course, and the enthusiasm and energy from those who have attended the courses have been inspiring.

Having a learning culture is really important. We want our people to be the best that they can be, and we absolutely have a duty to support them in doing that.

As a business, we have been built on never settling. We are always asking more questions, trying to make things better for our clients, and our people. We have created an environment which encourages curiosity and lifelong learning, which will support each of us to be the best that we can be.

We’ve asked some of our people this week to tell us about the most valuable lessons they have ever learnt. To kick us off, I’ll talk about two of mine…

Lesson 1: Make waves.

The lesson was actually ‘don’t make waves’, but I’ve reversed it. I think it’s very important that we stand for what we believe in, and to always do the very best we can in whatever we do. I like to think I’ve done that throughout my career, both as a lawyer, and now in my role as Head of Culture and Engagement.

Lesson 2: Embrace the ambiguity

This is a lesson that my amazing mentor taught me around a year ago. I used to be someone who had to have every single thing planned to the letter, including what was happening next in my career. I can’t deny that I don’t slip back in to that habit now and then, but I’ve definitely learnt to embrace the ambiguity now, and feel much better for it.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve ever learnt?

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