Upon my return to my leadership role after maternity leave, I was keen on exploring my altered circumstances, identifying my strengths, and planning my next steps. Simultaneously, I faced the formidable challenge of balancing the demands of leadership with the responsibilities of parenthood.
As I engaged in coaching sessions, I encountered a period of substantial organisational change. These sessions provided me with a platform to gain a clearer understanding of how these changes would personally affect me and allowed me to develop strategies for managing my individual circumstances within the broader context of the organisational transformations.
Maria exhibited exceptional proficiency in challenging my preconceived notions and entrenched thought patterns. Her approach was characterised by professionalism and support, as she adeptly layered her questions to guide me in unravelling my preconceptions and thoughts. This process continued until we pinpointed the thought, idea, or challenge that was hindering my progress.
Following these breakthrough moments, Maria would provide me with thought-provoking questions or activities designed to facilitate further exploration of my thinking. These activities extended the benefits of our coaching sessions beyond our meetings, equipping me with valuable tools that I continue to leverage today.
The impact of my coaching sessions has been profound. Not only did it help me address my initial goal, but the style and approach of the coaching have also empowered me to delve deeper into my thinking. I've become more inclined to consider challenges from alternative perspectives and question the "why" even outside of our scheduled sessions.
Maria has played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership style and equipping me with the necessary tools and skills to overcome future challenges. Navigating organisational change can be a trying experience for all staff members. Engaging in coaching during this transitional period afforded me the opportunity to openly discuss these challenges within a secure space. It also allowed me to reflect on my role within these changes and pinpoint aspects I could control, particularly my mindset and strengths.
During my coaching sessions with Maria, I've not only managed to sustain my well-being but have also experienced improvements, despite the turbulent operational phase.
Maria's coaching style was exceptionally adaptable, responding to my evolving needs and thoughts throughout our sessions. This flexibility ensured that each session was effective in helping me achieve my goals at that moment, contributing to a continuous momentum in my personal growth and development.
I wholeheartedly recommend Maria as a coach for anyone seeking to enhance their leadership style or overcome specific barriers. Her warmth, humour, and extensive experience added tremendous value to our sessions, enabling me to fully engage with the coaching experience.
Headteacher
Training was delivered to a secondary school administrative and support staff team on:
• Understanding others to support teamwork.
• Feedback, collaboration, and ways of working discussion.
• Enabling wellbeing, stress awarenes.
The training resulted in the following:
• Areas of support were able to be identified going forwards through discussion.
• Time involved in the team was appreciated and the shared collaboration will further benefit the teams and the school.
• Working relationships have improved.
The benefits to the organisation of the training were:
• Participants were given practical strategies to take away and put into practice such as stress management ideas and different approaches.
• Working relationships have improved.
Feedback from delegates:
• Great training, useful perspective from third party, facilitation very valuable.
• Sessions kept moving but gave all an opportunity to contribute.
• Trainer helped facilitate team/group discussions.
• Trainer was knowledgeable and open to questions and observations.
Executive Principal