Coach. Facilitator. Educator.
So, what have you learned?
My life has taken me to a lot of different places and every single experience has taught me something about what humans need to learn, grow and thrive.
As a teenager, I was never totally sure about what I wanted to do (it’s becoming obvious that I still don’t) so I trained as a chef and through the process of learning with other young chefs and in turn mentoring them, I realised that teaching was where my future lay.
My career in primary school education saw me train in some of the most deprived parts of Leeds and yet my first teaching job found me in one of the most affluent areas of the city. This taught me something simple but profound; no matter where they come from, children need the same things in order to thrive. They need to feel safe, appreciated, heard and valued. This doesn’t really change when we become adults.
And then?
In 2013, after ten hugely rewarding years working in schools across West Yorkhire, I was about to apply for a Headship when I was diagnosed with a blood cancer called Hodgkin Lymphoma. Beating it was a real team effort. It took 3 years of treatment from our awesome NHS, the unshakeable support of my wife - Alison - my family and friends and the incredible selflessness of a stem-cell donor called Guy.
In this time, I learned that life is fragile, that love is invaluable and that very little else matters other than your health. As soon as I was able to, I returned to education as a self-employed trainer, advisor and coach. I dislike the term ‘Consultant’ but I suppose that’s what I am, just don’t judge me.
In 2022, I was appointed as the Head of Coach Engagement for theMakings - a trail-blazing coaching platform that exists to develop future leaders for a better society. Find out more here…
Coaching & Training.
Over the last 8 years, I’ve worked with hundreds of leaders, governors, directors, CEO’s, COO’s and entrepreneurs supporting their personal and professional development.
I’m a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) accredited by the International Coaching Federation and an NLP master practitioner.
Representing.
It’s my great privilege to work as an ambassador for Blood Cancer UK and I regularly speak at events on their behalf. This role has taken me to some remarkable places and through talking, riding my bike and organising events, we’ve raised more than £75,000 for the charity.
So what now?
The pandemic has changed the way we do things. Like most people, I’ve felt my position in the world become less certain and more restricted. I’ve sought reassurance from trusted professionals and in turn, my clients have sought advice and headspace from me. Without this network, I know I’d be struggling.
I’ve coached leaders, executives, managers and students for over ten years since I first trained in coaching with the National College and I’m now an Accredited Associate Certified Coach with the ICF and NLP Master Practitioner.
I can offer coaching and support via online platforms and now the world has opened back up, in person with actual humans, together, in a room. If you’re interested in working with me, I’d love to hear about what you need.