ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the development of individual professional practice including its recognition and accreditation within the outdoor sector in the UK. It considers the key influences affecting the sector and the future direction for outdoor professional accreditation. The chapter suggests that, in the UK, the word qualification is used to describe a training process that is assessed and quality assured. A. J. Martin saw the first two signposts as motive and knowledge where the outdoor sector needs to collectively clarify its contributions and motives of service. The chapter discusses how events and trends in the UK outdoor sector have influenced its developing definition of professionalism and professional accreditation. The reflective process involves the exploration of self and challenges practitioners to reflect upon their outdoor and other life experiences. A need was perceived to raise the profile of outdoor learning practice, and to demonstrate the professionalism required and the professional status the sector demands.
