My experience really helped changed my mindset. It was difficult at times, but I found that the questions that were asked really challenged me and forced me to analyse some of my thoughts and ideas. I was in quite a negative headspace when the sessions began, but the way in which I was questioned and supported really helped me to reflect critically on my situation and put practises in place to help me think and act more positively. Great experience all round.

Matthew is a genuinely nice person, and makes you feel very comfortable and relaxed from the beginning. His ability to remind people what they have previously said is beneficial in positively challenging or questioning a thought process, but also helps with the feeling that you are actively listening and interested in what people are saying. His approach supports critical self reflection, allowing you to be more grounded in reality, to be kinder to yourself, and to focus on setting goals and activities that you can work towards to both deal with areas causing issues, as well as achieving future aspirations.

The coaching sessions with Matthew really helped me to reflect both professionally and personally on my career and the path ahead of me. His kind and friendly nature made him incredibly easy to talk to, which led to very productive sessions that were adapted to suit my needs. Picking up on the words someone says really opened my eyes to the phrase I use and the impression that these words give, particularly when lacking confidence in my own opinions or position. I also found the task or question at the end of each session really useful in focusing my thoughts for the next session. Through his questioning and focus on small details, I have been able to learn about myself as a person and as a leader within education.

I have found Matthew to be very supportive and approachable as a coach: throughout all of my sessions with him, Matthew has always maintained an interest in my professional and personal development, and his reflections and insights have been instrumental in helping me to reflect on aspects of my school-based practice as a senior leader in illuminating and constructive ways.

Although I was extremely positive to have a coach, I had underestimated the literally transformative effect that sessions with Matthew would have on my leadership and management skills. Through discussion, careful questioning and gentle prodding, Matthew helped me to challenge my assumptions, my reasons for doing things and targeted areas over a period of time that I felt were the weaker aspects in my leadership skill set. I feel so much more confident and calm as a leader, no longer trying to put all of the world’s troubles on my back. I truly could not recommend Matthew highly enough.