CSM Directory

Biography:

I am an experienced ILM Level 7 qualified senior and executive coach. Having previously worked as a Headteacher for 18 years across schools of varying size and context, I now facilitate working with senior leadership teams in schools and SEND trusts, coaching NPQEL learners and facilitating/coaching on NPQ courses that include apprenticeship. Outside of education, coaching and facilitating teams in industry and the faith sector.

My coaching practice is underpinned by the core values of identity, purpose and belonging. I aim to promote these values as outcomes for the clients I work with to create a sense of hope for the future and the inherent transformational capacity of individuals and teams. I achieve this through a predominantly non-directive approach that places the needs of the client at the centre of the conversation. This builds awareness, constructively challenges perceptions and develops a strong sense of efficacy, autonomy, and accountability. I place a strong emphasis on contracting at the start of the coaching relationship, with regular feedback from clients to evaluate the impact of the coaching process. Client feedback has demonstrated that I am highly effective in building rapport, posing challenging questions that promote new understanding and reflecting or reframing what clients have said to deepen their awareness.

I always seek to create a safe, collaborative, and productive space (virtually or in-person), adhering to the Global Code of Ethics and EMCC Global Diversity and Inclusion Statement. I am also committed to regular reflection and supervision to support my own development as a coach.

Testimonials from NPQEL participants:

“What surprises me the most is how different you can feel after a coaching session. Being honest, I often felt unprepared and worried ahead of a coaching call and felt unable to dedicate time, but once I met with Neil, it really made a huge difference. I would find the coaching really engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring. I always left the coaching calls with lots of ideas and thoughts and felt motivated.”

“Neil has shown me how powerful coaching can be. He has helped me grow as a leader more than anything I have done before.”

“Neil has been an excellent coach, who has enabled me to develop as an executive leader. He has challenged me to think deeply and reflect on what the current priorities are and how I can best achieve the goals we have set together. I have always left each coaching session very clear on what I need to work on.”