Agile Coach Camp UK

Agile Coach Camp UK is a yearly event that gathers agile coaches from around the world in an engaging open-space setting.

It is focused on learning, connection, food, and, of course, fun.

 

This year, we will be located at Center Parcs Woburn Forest. This woodland resort offers a tranquil escape and a wide range of accommodations, from cosy lodges or standard hotel rooms to luxury treehouses.

Surrounded by natural beauty, the resort offers diverse activities such as cycling, archery, watersports, and an impressive Subtropical Swimming Paradise featuring pools and slides.

With family-friendly dining options, a variety of outdoor adventures, and a serene environment, Woburn Forest is an ideal destination for relaxation, active outdoor pursuits, and, of course, Agile Coach Camp UK!

Overview:

Designed for those passionate about working with people in coaching, training, and guiding Agile organisations and teams. Over the two days, you will immerse yourself in dynamic discussions, learning, and networking, all just outside of London and within the serene setting of Center Parcs Woburn Forest.

 

Two days of a highly collaborative and self-managed Open Space for anyone passionate about coaching, training, mentoring or leading agile organisations, teams and individuals.

We look forward to your participation and welcoming you to the beautiful Woburn Forest for a fantastic time of learning and growth!

Note: Accommodation is self-organised and not included; please see below.

Location:

We shall continue our yearly Agile Coach Camp UK at the Center Parcs Woburn Forest Conference Centre, called ...

“The Venue”

 

It offers a blend of natural beauty and conference facilities, perfect for our inspiring and relaxed gathering. Enabling you to experience the perfect mix of nature and coaching in a professional space.

 

Schedule:

October 4th - 5th (Sat-Sun), 8:00 am - 5:00 pm on both days.

Daily Schedule:

• 8:00: Breakfast Networking and Registration
  • Arrive early for a light breakfast and networking. Coffee, tea, and a variety of pastries, fruits, and juices are available.
• 9:00: Opening Circle and Marketplace
  • The facilitator introduces the Open Space format and principles. Participants propose topics for the day’s sessions, and the agenda is built together. Each session gets assigned to a time slot and location in the venue.
• 9:30: Session 1
  • Breakout discussions based on the topics proposed. Participants can move freely between sessions.
• 10:30: Morning Break
  • A short break with refreshments like coffee, tea, and snacks.
• 11:00: Session 2
  • Discussions will continue, with participants engaging in different breakout rooms based on their interests.
• 12:00: Lunch
  • Lunch buffet with a variety of options catering to dietary preferences, including hot and cold dishes, salads, and desserts. Time to relax, network, and recharge.
• 1:00: Session 3
  • Another round of breakout discussions continuing with more participant-driven topics.
• 2:00: Afternoon Break
  • A brief refreshment break to stretch, grab a drink and connect with others.
• 2:30: Session 4
  • Further discussions on the topics. Participants can switch between sessions to explore different areas of interest.
• 3:30: Tea/Coffee Break
  • Final break of the day, with tea, coffee, and snacks.
• 4:00: Session 5 and Closing Circle
• The last round of breakout discussions is followed by a Closing Circle, where participants reflect on insights and key takeaways.
• 5:00: Close

 

What's Included:

 

• Up to 400 acres of beautiful forest to explore
• Free entry to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise water park, with rides, slides and splash pools
• There is a lake and beach to enjoy
• Up to 200 activities for all ages and fitness levels to add to your break
• Adventure playgrounds and picturesque picnic areas 

During the event, each day, enjoy a complimentary free breakfast and lunch.

Breakfast:

• Served from 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM each day. A selection of bacon, sausage or egg rolls, served alongside a selection of fresh fruit and croissants.

Lunch:

• A two-course buffet lunch. Buffet options include artisan sandwiches and wraps with fillings like roast chicken, smoked salmon, and grilled vegetables. Hot dishes include marinated chicken skewers, vegetable stir-fries, or baked lasagna, catering to vegetarians. Desserts range from fruit platters to indulgent options like mini cheesecakes, brownies, or fruit tarts. Beverages include tea, coffee, soft drinks, and fresh juices, ensuring a refreshing experience.

Breaks:

• Three servings of tea/coffee and biscuits per day.

 

Not Included:

Dinner:

• This is not included in the price as everyone may not be staying at the Center Parcs site; however, there are several bookable restaurants and a supermarket on site.

Accommodation:

• It is not included in the fee, you will need to find your own accommodation.

 

Accommodation:

As stated, accommodation is not included in the fee; you will need to find your own accommodation.

Center Parcs has an extensive number of lodges you can research that can house groups of attendees. You can also opt for the on-site hotel for a more private experience.

 

Lodges:

• Options vary from one-bedroom to larger family lodges and even expensive Tree Houses!
• Fully equipped kitchen: Includes appliances like a fridge, microwave, oven, toaster, and dishwasher, along with cooking utensils and tableware.
• Living area: A comfortable space with sofas, a dining table, and a flat-screen TV.
• Bedrooms: Separate bedrooms with double or twin beds.
• Private outdoor area: Many lodges feature a patio or terrace with outdoor seating, often with a BBQ or hot tub in the more luxurious lodges.
• Family-friendly amenities: Some lodges include cots, high chairs, and baby-proofing features for families with children.
• Bathroom(s): Modern bathrooms often have a bathtub or walk-in shower and towels.
• Fireplace or log burner: Some lodges have a cosy fireplace for a homely feel.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free internet access is typically included.
• Daily housekeeping or mid-stay cleaning: Depending on the lodge type, cleaning services may be available.
• Link: https://www.centerparcs.co.uk/discover-center-parcs/holiday-locations/woburn-forest.html

 

 

Hotel Rooms:

• Standard rooms are available at the on-site hotel, which is next to the venue, include:
• Balcony or terrace: Some rooms feature outdoor spaces with views of the surrounding forest.
• Double or twin beds: Comfortable bedding arrangements for couples or individuals.
• En-suite bathroom: Modern bathrooms with showers and toiletries are included.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free internet access for guests.
• TV and entertainment options: A flat-screen TV with a range of channels.
• Tea and coffee-making facilities: Amenities like a kettle, coffee, and tea supplies.
• Daily housekeeping: Rooms are serviced daily for added convenience.
• Link: https://www.centerparcs.co.uk/discover-center-parcs/lodge-holidays/accommodation-type/hotels-and-apartments.html

Cashless

At Center Parcs Woburn Forest, the resort operates as a cashless environment. This means you won’t be able to use cash on-site. Instead, you can pay for activities, dining, and other purchases using debit or credit cards or contactless payment methods such as mobile payment apps (e.g., Apple Pay or Google Pay).

 

Getting There 

The exact address is ...

Located in: Center Parcs Woburn Forest

Address: The Venue, Center Parcs Woburn Forest, Address: Millbrook Rd, Bedford MK45 2HZ

Hours:  Open 24 hours. Phone: +44 (0) 344 826 7715

Google Maps Link:  Center Parcs Woburn Forest - The Venue

 

 

By Air:

Center Parcs Woburn Forest is accessible from all of London’s major International Airports.

 

Example journey times are as follows:

• London Luton Airport: Approx. 1.20 hr by train to Flitwick Station and then a taxi to Centre Parc Woburn Forest.
• London Stansted Airport: Approx. 2.5 hr by train to Flitwick Station and then a taxi to Centre Parc Woburn Forest.
• London Heathrow Airport: Approx. 2.5 hrs by underground, trains to Flitwick Station, and then a taxi to Centre Parc Woburn Forest.
• London Gatwick Airport: Approx. 3 hrs by direct train to Flitwick Station and then a taxi to Centre Parc Woburn Forest.
• London Southend Airport: Approx. 3 hrs by train, underground and train to Flitwick Station, and then a taxi to Centre Parc Woburn Forest.

 

By UK Railway:

Center Parcs Woburn Forest is accessible from all of London’s major International Airports.

Example journey times are as follows:

• London: Approx. 1 hr by train to Flitwick, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride.
• Birmingham: Approx. 1.5 hr by train to Milton Keynes, followed by a 20-minute taxi ride.
• Manchester: Approx. 3 hrs by train to Milton Keynes, then a 20-minute taxi ride.
• Leeds: 
  
• Cardiff: Approx. 3.5 hrs by train to Milton Keynes, then a 20-minute taxi ride.
• Edinburgh: Approx. 5.5 hrs by train to Milton Keynes, then a 20-minute taxi ride.
• Glasgow: Approx. 5.5 hrs by train to Milton Keynes, then a 20-minute taxi ride.

Thameslink, a UK railway company, offers a 10% discount on journeys to Flitwick Station, which you can obtain from here: https://www.thameslinkrailway.com/centerparcs

Note:

If you travel to Flitwick Train station, there is a Center Parcs complimentary Guest Shuttle Service that transports guests to and from Flitwick Train Station to the Hotel Reception on Mondays and Fridays ONLY from 10:30 a.m. to 19:00 p.m. To confirm, you must phone the Guest Services team at Woburn Forest for more information at +44 1525 842855.

If you decide to take a taxi, they will likely be cheaper from Flitwick Station for all journeys from any train station, so you may wish to take an extra train and go from there, even if it takes longer.

 

Registration & Fees

This is a not-for-profit event, so we have tried to keep prices as low as possible.

 

Last year's event was sold out, so sign up now on a first-come, first-served basis or join the waiting list if it is full.

• Event Fee: £300 ex VAT. As you will be attending within the UK, payment must be made with UK VAT.
• Payment Options:  Registration is confirmed with a valid payment card in advance of the event.
• Cancellation Options:  You can cancel your registration for free ONLY one month before the event. After that, your fee is non-refundable, as this is the venue's cancellation policy. However, if someone steps into your place, we can then refund your payment if someone else picks it up.

 

Facilitators

Meet our facilitators,  Rick, John, and Caitlin.  They are experienced coaches passionate about serving the camp sessions and open-space discussions. They have deep expertise in agile transitions, agile coaching, and, of course, clean language!

Portia Tung, who originated the idea for the camp at Woburn Forest, deserves a special thank you.

Thanks, Portia, you rock!

 

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I bring family?  Yes, but they need a ticket to attend the Agile Coaching Camp UK event. However, if staying at Center Parcs, they should be able to use all Center Parcs facilities as regular guests.
• SubTropical Pool Access?  Yes, SubTropical pool access is included in your event ticket, even if you're not staying at Center Parcs. The pool closes at 9 pm.
• Are ALL the facilities free?  Not quite. Even paying guests at Center Parcs still have to pay for some of the facilities, such as the Spa, Bicycles, Bowling, etc. But there are many which are free. Check with Guest Services when you arrive.
• Car Parking?  Yes, parking is available for non-staying attendees at the back of the conference centre.
• How do I work out sharing a Lodge with others?  Join our online Discord chat instance and connect with others to share accommodation opportunities. We shall provide this link in your registration email.
• Hotel Room Option?  Yes, there's an on-site hotel with single rooms. Contact Center Parcs to book these in the link here: https://www.centerparcs.co.uk/discover-center-parcs/lodge-holidays/accommodation-type/hotels-and-apartments.html
• Center Parcs is too expensive for me; what are some budget options?  For other accommodation, explore nearby towns like Flitwick or the Travel Lodge at Bedford Marston Moretaine. The usual hotel booking sites have plenty of accommodations near Center Parcs. However, you’ll need to arrange not only this but also your own transport to the event for each day and back, which may end up costing more overall!
• What language will be used at the event?  Standard UK English.
• What do I need to bring for the event?  Your engagement during this highly collaborative Open Space, for discussions, learning, fun and a respectful code of conduct.
• What can I do if I don’t have a working debit or credit card? Center Parcs Woburn Forest offers a solution for guests who don’t have access to a valid credit or debit card. You can visit Guest Services and request a payment card, which is a pre-loaded card that you can use to top up with cash. This card can then be used around the resort for activities, dining, and other purchases, allowing you to enjoy the cashless environment without needing a traditional debit or credit card.
• Need More Help?  We encourage self-organisation. If you’re struggling with anything, reach out to the Discord chat group (available on sign up) to contact your fellow Agile Coaches or contact the event organizers here: talk@agileaffinity.com.

 

Code of Conduct

1. Respect and Inclusion

• Please treat everyone with kindness, respect, and empathy, regardless of their background, experience level, or opinions.
• Engage in discussions openly and considerately, ensuring all voices are heard and valued.
• Be mindful of language, avoid offensive or discriminatory remarks, and remain inclusive of different viewpoints.

2. Collaboration and Learning

• Foster a spirit of collaboration by encouraging knowledge sharing, active listening, and constructive feedback.
• Allow others the space to learn and grow by maintaining a patient and non-judgmental attitude.
• Be open to learning from different perspectives and approaches, recognizing that diversity strengthens our learning experience.

3. Constructive Communication

• Focus on open, honest, and respectful communication at all times.
• Criticize ideas, not individuals, and offer feedback in a constructive and solution-oriented manner.
• Listen actively and avoid interrupting or dominating conversations.

4. Confidentiality and Trust

• Respect the privacy and confidentiality of fellow participants. Do not share personal stories or sensitive information outside the camp without explicit permission.
• Create a safe space for sharing experiences and challenges by honouring confidentiality agreements.

5. Active Participation

• Be fully present and engaged in all sessions and activities, contributing thoughtfully to discussions and activities.
• Avoid distractions like checking emails or phone messages during sessions, allowing the group to focus on the learning experience.

6. Zero Tolerance for Harassment

• The camp is committed to a harassment-free environment. Harassment includes but is not limited to offensive verbal comments, intimidation, stalking, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome attention.
• If you experience or witness harassment, notify a facilitator or organizer immediately to take appropriate action.
• Violating this principle may lead to removal from the camp without a refund.

7. Take Responsibility

• Be accountable for your actions and words, and seek to repair any harm or misunderstandings should they occur.
• Address conflicts respectfully, working towards resolution while maintaining the dignity of all parties involved.

8. Respect the Space and Materials

• Take care of the environment and the materials provided for the camp, keeping communal spaces clean and organized.
• Respect the venue’s rules and guidelines.

9. Continuous Improvement

• Embrace the Agile principle of continuous improvement, applying it to both the camp experience and your behaviour within the group.
• Share feedback constructively to improve the experience for everyone.

Participants agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct by attending this Agile Coaching Camp UK. Let’s work together to create an enriching and respectful experience for all.

For more information, contact us here: talk@agileaffinity.com

Thanks, and may the Agile be with you always!