John is a former school leader with extensive experience in training, coaching, and supporting school-based staff, from ITT and their mentors to senior leaders, to improve outcomes for learners of all ages.

He has a proven track record of enhancing outcomes for children and young people through school improvement and staff professional development. This is achieved through evidence-based approaches and excellent interpersonal skills, which help establish relationships with leaders at all levels in schools and colleges, local authorities, and commercial organisations across the UK and overseas.

Having been deputy headteacher of a large secondary school in the south-west of England, John spent 12 years at the University of Exeter, leading the transformation of a two-school research project into full-service delivery across 200+ schools in the UK and overseas. John remains proud of the results, which were unique in Europe.

Since 2005, John has been an independent consultant, supporting school improvement primarily through improved relationships, classroom management, and whole-school initiatives. He is a local authority advisor and has supported groups in achieving NPQs, particularly in leading behaviour and culture and leading teaching.

He is a nationally recognised expert in R(S)HE / PSHE education and was a regional advisor for the national PSHE CPD programme and the PSHE Association. In December 2025, John was delighted to be invited to speak to a House of Commons Select Committee investigating PSHE. John is also working with a team of national experts to establish ‘Safeguarding Scenarios’ – there is a short explainer video here.

‍