The Elite Survival Training Team - highly skilled & experienced instructors

the elite survival team

We inform, we encourage, we enthuse

Our aim is to inspire people of all ages and from all backgrounds to learn the art of survival in unfamiliar surroundings.

Skill up: shelter-building, fire-lighting, navigation, knot-tying, water source, search & rescue, self defence, positive mindset

Your Survival Adventure Host

John Sullivan

Hey there!

I’m John Sullivan, a former Royal Marines Commando with nine years of experience in some of the toughest environments on Earth – from jungles to deserts to the Arctic.

I started my journey teaching survival skills to young adults with learning and behavioral challenges, and leading life-changing expeditions for school and college groups to places like Namibia, Belize, and Borneo.

After that, I transitioned to freelance consultancy, where I used my firsthand knowledge and extensive network to help media organizations and expedition leaders navigate new cultures and environments. You might have caught some of my work on BBC’s ‘Last Man Standing’ and ‘Extreme Dreams’, or Channel 5’s ‘Unbreakables’.

In 2010, I founded ‘Eating with Cannibals’ for the National Geographic Channel, and more recently, I lent my expertise to the Norwegian documentary ‘The Island’, where contestants braved a month on an uninhabited island armed with just a knife and machete.

When I’m not off on adventures, I’m here in the UK sharing my passion for the great outdoors and teaching survival skills with a fantastic team of highly skilled & passionate instructors!

A warm welcome from the elite survival team

Elite Survival Training Team (John Sullivan & team lifting one of their teammates above their heads in a fun team pose)

The Elite Survival Team are not just a team, we are a close-knit family of super motivated individuals. Each of our instructors are highly trained and bring a wealth of experience to the table – whether they’re ex-military personnel or seasoned expedition leaders, they’ve conquered the Arctic, braved the Desert, and mastered the Jungle!

Our mission is simple:
To ignite a passion for survival in people from all walks of life. Whether you’re young or young at heart, we will show you the ropes in unfamiliar terrain.

Our philosophy in a nutshell:
We inform. We encourage. We enthuse. And trust us, you’ll feel that energy in every session. Expect lively demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice. You’ll not only learn the ins and outs of survival but also gain a deep appreciation for Mother Nature and her abundant resources. And hey, we promise plenty of laughs along the way – because who said learning can’t be fun?

We have put together a number of realistic survival packages to fit in with your needs and requirements. 

Why choose ELITE SURVIVAL?

real-life experience

Our team isn’t just knowledgeable; we’ve lived and breathed survival in some of the toughest environments on the planet.

safety first

Your well-being is our top priority. Rest assured, our fully enhanced DBS checked trainers are equipped to handle any situation.

fully insured

We’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive insurance means you can relax and enjoy the experience with peace of mind.

entertainment

Learning survival skills is not dull. We strike the perfect balance between fun and education, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.

professionalism

From start to finish, expect nothing but the highest standards of professionalism. We take our craft seriously, so you can focus on learning and having a great time.

passion-driven instruction

With us, you’re not just learning survival skills; you’re embarking on an adventure fuelled by passion and dedication.

inclusive approach

Whether you’re a kid, an adult, or someone with learning challenges, our inclusive approach means everyone can join in the adventure.

meticulous planning

Leave the details to us. From the smallest logistics to the grandest visions, we meticulously plan every aspect of your event to ensure it’s a resounding success.

are you ready to adventure with us?