WELCOME TO COLUMBA 1400

Developing young potential

Start here. Then you can go anywhere.

We help young people and the adults around them to be the change they want to see in the world. We walk shoulder to shoulder with them as they explore who they are and what’s important to them – their core values. We believe this unlocks a strength that can never be shut down.

Working from our awe-inspiring centre on the Isle of Skye, the Blair Estate in Dalry and in the community, we create the conditions for change. It’s our privilege to watch young people open up, step up and make a positive difference that ripples across the whole of society.

Everyone has greatness inside them. We’re here to help them find it.

Group of teenagers posing for picture outside
LEADERSHIP ACADEMIES

What we do

Young People’s Leadership Academy

Head Teachers’ Leadership Academy

Place-Based Leadership Experiences

Social Leaders’ Leadership Academy

BEAUTIFUL FOOD IN A BEAUTIFUL PLACE

Welcome to our cafe

From delicious cakes and coffee to a substantial lunch, our café has something for everyone. Best of all, every single penny is invested back into our work – so every delicious bite directly helps a young person discover their greatness.

Inside Social Enterprise Cafe in Skye
THE HEART OF OUR WORK

Our core values

Our six Columban values define our work and our approach. They’ve been described as “the essential qualities that others need to see in a leader during the critical moments that can make or break a community.” They’ve been the heart of every single thing we’ve done since June 2000.

Awareness Case Studies
Focus Case Studies
Creativity Case Studies
Integrity Case Studies
Perseverence Case Studies
Service Case Studies
REAL RESULTS

The outcomes

After taking part in a Young People’s Leadership Academy:

93%

Increased their confidence

89%

Increased their resilience

85%

Increased their self-esteem

89%

Improved their leadership skills

85%

Embraced a leadership role in their school or community

According to an independent evaluation by McKinlay Consulting, 2022

“I will be eternally grateful for this opportunity to invest in our young people who will undoubtedly go on to be the leaders of a brighter, better future.”

HEAD TEACHER

“Columba 1400 will change your life and your outlook on life in the best way and it will open up so many doors for you.” 

YOUNG PERSON

IMAGES FROM OUR

Leadership academies