Testimonials

• Leadership Development Programmes

Jump to:

• Bespoke Training

Leadership Development Programmes: 

Any other feedback for the team or about the programme?

“The course was awesome, probably the best I've ever done.”

“Peter and Nicky were really really nice, wonderful to talk to either in the group or in the 1:1. I did feel like we shared an experience together.”

“Thank you so much for everything and putting together this amazing training. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to build better habits and develop as an individual as well as become more efficient professionally.”

“Nothing further to say besides a heartfelt thank you!”

“Thanks again for such a great and informative course. I learnt a lot and have been implementing so much of what was learnt and have benefited already. I'd recommend everyone in my team takes part in this course in future.”

“Great course, thank you all.”

“I really appreciated the training: content, format, discussions with the team and trainers of course, thanks a lot!”

“Thank you - I do hope we can manage further training together in the future”

“Thank you for this opportunity! Thank you for sharing your experience!”

“Thank you for a great course, I learned a lot that I hope to be able to implement in the coming time. I have already asked HR to consider two of my reports for the next available cohort.”

“Thank you very much for sharing your patience, time and thought with us.”

Square Enix. Leadership Training Programme.

What would you say to someone considering joining the LTP?

“Do it!  Even if you think you're a great leader, there are always things to learn and reflect upon - and if you don't agree with that then you definitely need to be on the course!”

“Go with open mind, put your prejudices and way of doing things outside the door. Do not be intimidated by more senior attendees-everyone is equal and in a safe space”

“Do it. Approach it with an open mind. I found it challenging, but in a good way, you won't be overwhelmed and I found it incredibly useful.”

“The tools and knowledge gained by the course has impact beyond just how we can be better managers”

Square Enix. Leadership Training Programme.

What are your thoughts, having completed the Middle Leadership Programme?

“Being on the Middle Leadership Programme has been really good in giving me time and space to reflect on what leadership is and what it looks like when it is effective. Whilst, it has been challenging balancing the demands of the programme with all of the other aspects of the job, the programme has allowed me to connect more with other middle leaders across the school and this has been really important not only as a way of having support but also as a way of having a friendly, yet critical sounding board.”

“The programme allowed me dedicated time both to evaluate my leadership strengths and to identify areas to work on.  I was given bespoke and specific tasks which were often very challenging but really made me engage with the areas I want to improve.  Particular highlights included exploring different leadership styles (directing/coaching/delegating/supporting), the idea of 'what others need to willingly follow' and strategies for giving feedback and having difficult conversations.”

The question "What do others need to willingly follow?" was fascinating. I learnt about three key facets required so that the needs in my team are met. It was so helpful to explore these ideas and to look at example behaviours and attitudes on a broad spectrum. It reminded me to not assume that others approach the world in the same way as I do and not to make assumptions about others' ways of working.”

“This course has got better and better as it has gone on. The weekly challenges have definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. I have also taken away lots of little tools to improve my leadership of individuals within my team, including exercises to get to know them better (as professional members of my team and what they want from a HoD) and have been able to put some of these into practice in my department meetings etc. The most useful sessions have been those on difficult conversations, scenarios that I've not encountered before, and reminders that being honest in feedback is actually being kind.” 

“I definitely feel I have developed my toolkit in terms of managing my department and there have been lots of thought-provoking conversations in the MLDP sessions that have made me more confident in my expertise.”

“The Middle Leadership Programme has given me a huge amount of confidence in my leadership skills. I have particularly valued the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from a range of departments and to share ideas with my buddy. One of the most valuable take-aways for me has been to appreciate the importance of getting to know colleagues better, so that they feel part of and comfortable with, any change of direction that may need to take place.”

“Nicky Bright was professional and encouraging throughout. The most difficult aspect has been finding time to complete the weekly challenges, but the time taken has been a worthwhile investment.”

“Particular highlights of the course for me have included learning about different leadership styles and when to use them, as well as managing difficult conversations.” 

“The support from the course leader has been fantastic. I have been inspired by someone who has had recent leadership experience in a private, girls' day school. She has always been able to answer questions in a timely, clear and detailed manner and I have very much enjoyed hearing about her personal experiences in a similar professional context. I believe the course has helped to think about my future practice in a different way than I ever have before, and if I had access to a similar course for future senior leaders, I would certainly be interested based on my experiences this time.”

Redmaids School. Middle Leadership Development Programme.

General Feedback from Leadership Development Programmes:

“Having time together in a group to talk through issues - I felt I really got to know the others well and I came out feeling much more supported and able to be supportive.”

“The Emergenetics profiling was excellent and helped us really understand each other.”

“I really enjoyed the exercises and the information that we were given.”

“Having the chance to understand the nuances of leadership and the time to think about them really worked well.”

“It's definitely worth it. You will come out with much more effective, informed leaders and a better team that understand each other.”

“Thanks for your support!”

“Thank you for everything.”

Walthamstow Hall. 2023 Programme.

What would you now say to others thinking about doing something similar?

“Do it!”

“It gives a really good insight into how you can work well together.”

“Go for it”

“Totally worth it and include the wider team, not just the direct team. i.e., it was good we did the whole SLT not just Exec.”

“100% they should do it!”

Abbot’s Hill SLT, Leadership Development Workshop

“You will really find it useful, everything can be applied to management practice.”

“Definitely recommended, hugely worthwhile session to attend.”

Jersey College for Girls, Tackling Difficult Conversations CPD

“Outstanding. This was clear, focused and really helpful.”

“Well worth doing - lots of great practical tips and an excellent way of bonding the team together.”

“Ask Nicky Bright to come in and deliver this session!”

“Arrive with an open and honest approach to thinking and interacting with others in the group.”

“It was a really impactful and collaborative use of time. Thought it was also a really great team building exercise. I felt like I got to know my team a little better.”

Bedford Girls SLT, Leadership Development Workshop

“Definitely worth booking it in as Nicky knows what it is like working in a school environment and has a lot of research-based suggestions of things to be aware of when working with each other.”

“I found it a highly constructive and advantageous team-building activity designed to enhance the collective understanding of a core, mutual vision and strategic objectives, ensuring unanimous commitment towards a common goal.”

“Would recommend”

Bedford Girls Juniors. Workshop.

“No hesitation - do it!”

“I think it was absolutely worth while. I have implemented so much of these new ideas into my daily life and can see how the things that I have learnt could help other people that I know.”

“I first thought the idea of a group pod daunting but coming together once a week to talk through the learning has been a really positive experience as it makes you realise that you are not alone in your thinking.”

“RUN, DON'T WALK! This is one of the most valuable things I have ever done, and I thank KES for the incredible opportunity. I highly, highly recommend it.”

“Do it! It works! Be aware of the time commitment but know that a programme that will change the way you approach your whole life will need some initial time investment, but it is absolutely worth it!”

“They absolutely should! It's a great tool to have.”

“Definitely do it – it’s amazing”

“Embrace it and don't be afraid.”

“You will learn a lot about yourself and be able to grow as a person”

“I would highly recommend it, as it has helped me to understand myself a lot more”

“Do it!!!!”

“Do it. It's hard work but you learn a lot about yourself and others.”

“I would say to go for it and to make the most of it. It has given me a more positive outlook for the future”

“Try it! It’s very enlightening and will change the way you look at life”

“Definitely go for it, you won't regret it. Also, the more you put into it, the more you'll get out of it.”

“I would highly recommend it, make sure you are able to dedicate the time to videos and practice in order to get the most out of it”

“Definitely give it a go.”

“I think everyone would benefit from the programme - whether personally or professionally, or both.”

“Don't hesitate! It will really benefit you”

“I would highly recommend if you want to improve any area of your life. These skills will last a lifetime!”

KES, Bath PQ programme.

“I'm happy to recommend this group coaching programme for educational senior leaders, offered by former Head, Nicky Bright. School leaders need this kind of support more than ever, I think...”

Dr Jill Berry, Educational Consultant

 What would you now say to someone considering this programme for themselves?

“Put the time aside to do it as it will have a big impact and is definitely worth the time and cost.”

Deb Freeman, Deputy Head Pastoral, Truro School

“I highly recommend this course. It is an excellent platform to reflect on and develop your practice and draw on Nicky's expertise, while meeting and working alongside people from different settings. Having completed the course, I now look at my professionalism and performance in a different way.”

Emily Jefford, Deputy Head - Pre-Prep, St Catherine’s Bramley

“Whilst an hour feels like a commitment during a busy week, it's well worth it. You will feel rejuvenated afterwards :-)”

Kristina Lewis, Assistant Head (Teaching and Learning), Francis Holland School - Regent's Park

“It's time well spent investing in yourself and in your career. The programme makes you more reflective about all aspects of life and how you can become more successful and satisfied both professionally and personally.”

Lauren Baker, Head of English, St George’s Ascot

“Definitely do it. It will be a very cleansing experience and make you really understand your strengths and weaknesses.”

Phil Macken, Director of Drama, Headington School

“Definitely do it if you have the chance - you won't regret it and your life will definitely be enriched as a result.”

Polly White, Head of MFL, Farnborough Hill School

“Go for it! Be prepared to honestly reflect on yourself and don’t be afraid to make big changes.”

Jade Smart, Assistant Head, The Godolphin & Latymer School

“Do it. It won't be easy, but you will definitely learn something about yourself and the way you work.”

“Be ready to be honest with yourself and willing to discuss areas for development with others and you will get a lot out of it.”

Dr Jen Ryder, Deputy Head, Badminton School.

“Don't think twice. The programme is informative, insightful but also very refreshing; providing you with the knowledge, drive, motivation, and confidence to take the next steps forwards. It allows you to develop as a leader, a teacher, and a person, reflecting at so many levels. To run ideas, challenges and even triumphs by colleagues outside of your own school brings an amazing outlook and perspective that you can learn so much from.”

“This programme leads to positive change in every aspect or your life, not just your job. Do it! You will leave feeling challenged, in the best possible way, but know you have the right support network to drive change professionally and personally. You will create positive habits that increase productivity yet promote a better work like balance.”

Lara Wilkinson, Assistant Head Co-Curricular, Kent College Pembury.

“When you think you have no time for your own CPD, it is a sign that you do absolutely need and deserve that professional and *personal* development! This programme took me from feeling I needed to step back, step down and hide, to feeling I have been choosing to step back, step down and hide when that was not what I wanted, and I must not do that. I feel truly reinvigorated, I see the world through a new lens, and I make sure my personal story and leadership journey matters again. Thank you Nicky.”

“Please do this and do not put off working on yourself a moment longer. The profession demands we are the most together person in the room, and of course we need help to keep on top of this, and to learn how to change and help ourselves.”

Dr Elizabeth Mackintosh, Winchester College

“Do it! Nicky runs this course with energy and enthusiasm allowing you to feel 100% supported throughout. This has been an opportunity for me to really connect with a fantastic group of like-minded people but also to reconnect with myself.”

“This course gives you the opportunity to see things differently. To stop just blindly going forwards and to really reflect. Nicky is so knowledgeable, empathetic, helpful, and supportive, while also challenging you to bring the very best out of yourself.”

Toni Rollo, Deputy Head, Jersey College for Girls

“This is a great place to begin to identify where your values and skills as a Leader come together. It provides a place in which you will be challenged but also developed through a Leadership curriculum.”

“This Programme has been so powerful and has given me the courage, determination, and resilience to follow my own Leadership path. Nicky provides a Leadership Curriculum that scaffolds learning, is specific and purposeful to the individual and indirectly builds a professional network that is otherwise lacking for individuals leading in schools.
Thank you Nicky!”

Paula Timlin, Deputy Head, Beacon Hill School

“We have thousands of interactions every week and the impact of every single one of these can have far reaching consequences. Unless we invest in ourselves, we will not have the positive influence on those we serve. This programme will force you to think and reflect, it's not easy or comfortable at times, but this is where the growth comes from. The programme is a safe space in which to explore the many facets of your leadership, but it always recognises that we are only human, and we make mistakes! You will be given tools in which to make real sustainable change- without question a genuine highlight of the week!”

Claire Peach, Head of Admissions, Taunton Prep School

“Definitely do it - and use it as an opportunity to discover who you want to be as a leader; sometimes what you are being told about leadership by those in your own organisation isn't as valid as it might seem; use this as an opportunity to do your own exploration and reach your own conclusions.”

Amy Wallace, Principal, Queens Gate School

“If you're anything like me, you're probably already thinking of doing something like this but never feel brave enough or you convince yourself you don't have the time to do it... If that's you then THIS IS FOR YOU.  Even after a few weeks I feel more focused, confident in myself and look forward to the next session.  I thoroughly recommend allowing yourself the time.  It's worth it.”

“If you were ever considering doing something like this, do it.  If you think you don't have the time to commit, then definitely do it.  It will change how you work, and you'll meet some wonderful people along the way.  The programme has given me the space and time to look at all aspects of myself and make tweaks for the better.  It has allowed me to grow in confidence, recognise my strengths and build on the areas I have identified as 'things to work on'.  It has been a wonderful opportunity to network with likeminded people who have been welcoming, knowledgeable and all-round great fun.”

Vanessa Mitchell, Deputy Principal, The Ladies' College, Guernsey

“I found Nicky’s group coaching for Senior Leaders programme incredibly useful in helping me to critically review different aspects of my professional life. Having the time and space to reflect on the way I approach my work was invaluable, and I am left with plenty of strategies that will help to optimise my productivity going forward.” 

Andrew Uglow, Director of Studies, Cokethorpe School

“For all leaders and potential leaders, this is a must-do course. By taking this course, you are investing in yourself. Many of us simply do not make time for professional development and by taking this course, it focuses you to stop and take the time to do so.”

Alex Large, Head of Boarding, The Royal School, Wolverhampton

“In the fast-paced world of education, we need practical solutions to poor habits/routines that we ourselves as professionals have adopted. This course is the first piece of CPD that I have done that has attempted to address my behaviour, rather than just giving me a multitude of new practices to try to fit into the day. I am only sorry that I didn't do the course earlier! Nicky has created a course that helps you to penetrate some of the ideas that have been presented to us in the enormous amount of leadership research. In just an hour a week you are given the opportunity to explore these ideas in a constructive way that is useful to you in your setting. Very slowly you will start to adopt a new approach to what you are doing. The opportunity to network with others outside of your setting is also invaluable. You won’t have any regrets about doing this, the personal and professional development opportunity is not to be missed.”

Laura Ellis-James, Assistant Head Pastoral, Bruton School for Girls

“It is so worth putting the time aside for this coaching course. It sounds like a big commitment, but the time investment is so worthwhile. The supportive nature of the group allows you to explore the ideas and come up with realistic small targets that you can work towards alongside the larger aim of high performance.”

Lana Eagers, Deputy Head, St Catherine’s Twickenham

“I would encourage them to take part and to value the time it will give them to take for themselves and to invest in themselves. I would say that having thinking time will allow them to develop and feel more confident in themselves, which will allow them to bring more to the role they have. I would say it has been well worth taking part and they should certainly do it.”

Norma Murray, Head of Junior School, St Margaret’s Aberdeen

“To do it!”

Stuart Dalley, Deputy Head, Badminton School

“Definitely worthwhile”

Simon Lewis, Jersey College for Girls

“Do it - it helps you take a wider picture of your leadership skills that enables you to better deal with the minutiae”

Anthea, Redmaids’ School

“Embrace and persist. I have never been very good at asking for help and was always a bit cynical about programmes like this. However, I am converted. It's just made me confront things about myself and provided me with a sense of direction. Would do it all again.”

Justine Stephens, Tudor Hall School

“Do it! Amazingly self reflective. I don't think I've ever thought about myself or my practice in such depth.”

Lydia, Queen’s Gate School

“It's really good! It provides a fantastic opportunity to delve into self-reflection as a leader with like-minded people.”

Kate Kiernan, North London Collegiate School

“Do it, I have found it really valuable.”

Rebecca Macefield, City of London Freemen’s School

“I would strongly recommend it. It gives plenty of time to reflect on your practise and poses important questions for consideration. It is also very helpful to talk with fellow professionals, sharing ideas and good practise.”

James Entwisle, Channing School

“Do it - spend some time on yourself: it will be hugely beneficial to you and your team.”

Charlotte Hart, The Abbey School

“Do it! It is amazing how much simple sessions can have a positive effect on your work. There is not a day that has gone by in the last 6 weeks where I haven't thought about the course, or applied something I have discovered through it!”

Sophie Auer, Mayfield School

“Go for it. I was a bit of a sceptic, but the benefits of an hour for self reflection each week for 12 weeks are immense - you can see that all of us on the programme have developed in the way that we are thinking about ourselves and our futures and we are only half way through so I can see that it is likely to be very helpful moving forward.”

Claire Spinks, Channing School

“I believe this program is excellent for leaders because it emphasises both well-being and strategies for successful leadership, recognising that the two go hand in hand.”

Nithya Murugan, Queen’s College London

“I would advise them to do it - it is a lovely hour of weekly reflection & deep thought, useful conversation and new learning. What is there not to enjoy about it?!”

Jen Davison, Badminton School

“Don’t hesitate, do it!”

Laura Bursey Faulkner, Rugby School

“Go for it - to find out more about yourself can only ever be a positive thing.”

Cathy Darnton, Howells School

Group Coaching Testimonials

“Nicky is a fantastic exec coach, and I really enjoyed the time I spent with her. In particular, I enjoyed the mix of traditional exec coaching and a curriculum led programme, which provided a different focus for each session. She is an excellent, neutral sounding board and helped to facilitate tangible solutions when necessary - I would highly recommend Nicky as an exec-level coach.”

Helen Cable, Operations Director at Epic Games Publishing

“I booked Nicky for several coaching sessions in the Autumn term 2020 for preparation for Headship interviews. She was excellent; giving me a number of really useful tips and her advice was highly personalised, both to me and to the positions I was applying for. The sessions with Nicky also really enhanced my confidence and also gave me an opportunity to reflect verbally on my achievements to date - something I had not really done due to the ever-changing situation that we now find ourselves in. I would highly recommend Nicky either for intense coaching sessions, as I had, and indeed a longer programme of coaching sessions - the latter, I am booking up for imminently!”

Nicola Griffiths, Headmistress, St Mary’s Colchester

“I found the coaching support transformative. It helped me gain clarity during a period of great change and uncertainty and led me to a new role - a promotion - with even greater purpose and sense of fulfilment. I am really grateful.”

Dal Hundal, Associate Technical Director at Sumo Digital Ltd

“I can't recommend Nicky highly enough, I found her exec coaching to be engaging and highly effective in bringing about positive habits and improvements to all areas of professional life.”

Stuart Morton, Publishing Director at Epic Games Publishing

“Meeting with Nicky has been invaluable in helping me adjust to the demands of my new senior leadership role. I would never have carved out time dedicated wholly to self-reflection on how things were going, and this is something I will certainly be making time for in the future. Allowing myself the time and space to set targets and to hold myself to account helped me

maintain momentum in the first few months of the role, and helped me to see solutions more clearly as different challenges arose. Having someone to discuss my work with who wasn’t a member of the school community was particularly useful, and helped me to gain perspective where I needed it. Thank you, Nicky!”

Kay Hotchkiss, Assistant Head (Teaching, Learning and Research), City of London School for Girls

“I have been having leadership coaching with Nicky for a year and she's been brilliant! We've worked through a pretty large body of work, but it's never felt heavy or onerous, Nicky's kept it relevant and interesting. I definitely feel I've improved as a leader, and as a happy human being, and I really value the time we've spent working together. Thanks Nicky!”

John Duffill, Design Lead at Epic Games Publishing