I first met Allan in 2012 when I went to work for the University of Derby. At first I worked in a different department, but seeing his enthusiasm and dedication working with his students I knew I really wanted to be a part of his team; in the college department of the university. What a great guy to work with and for. He ran and still does run the outdoor department there with so much vigor and zest. The students on his course have an academic programme to follow and with Allan´s creativity and resourcefulness the course is made exciting, interesting and is well interlinked with the theoretical side of the programme. With years of experience in numerous areas of teaching and instructing, Allan´s coaching is second to none. Ensuring his sessions are educational and fun, with clear aims and objectives. Allan´s dynamic coaching allows for the best use of time and he has innovative ideas with the resources available to him whether it be an indoor or outdoor affair. Allan has worked with many different ages, abilities and with numerous sized groups and always manages to ensure a lesson that allows each and every individual to gain as much as they can from the activity they are participating in. Allan´s use of differentiation, even during the most challenging times, sees participants consolidating on their skills and progressing with those that are new. Allan has an impressive amount of energy, is always the first to be at work and always the last to leave. He always seems to know what is best for individuals and what is appropriate for them to be able to progress in their sports and every day life. He is kind and caring with a generous heart and has experience to use as examples for what seems like every situation. If anyone wishes to do a course with someone you can rely on to get the most out of themselves then get in touch with Allan. Whether it be for learning how to climb, practice navigation skills, understand and have confidence in doing first aid or gaining advice on how to run an outdoor or public service course; then for me Allan is definitely the person to contact. Allan´s charm and charisma will allow all to have a good time while feeling at ease in complete safety and comfort, challenged only when appropriate. A previous great colleague and now, a fantastic friend.

Allan is a very good Instructor in a number of disciplines. He supports and motivates students every year in a range of activities, is always enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. He is a pleasure to work with.