I asked Claire to coach me as I was a fairly new Depute Head, and really unsure of how I was doing, what I was doing or even why.

I signed up for 3 sessions thinking that hopefully I would be able to tackle issues which kept returning in the role- feelings of inadequacy, not getting the job done, lack of autonomy and lack of assertiveness.

We looked closely at what I was about as an Educator and leader. I identified I valued relationships, fairness, trust and morals as key drivers for me as a leader.  We also discussed what held me back.

The first session allowed me to express my frustrations with myself and situations... from that Claire helped me clarify that I before my next session I would work on ‘getting the job done’.

Claire got me to write down a typical day. In session 2 a shift happened.

What was really inspirational for me was that I saw how much I actually got done in just one day... I saw how many people I connected with and I also started to acknowledge what was actually holding me back. I also identified some behaviours which were not helpful - lack of boundaries, overworking and prioritising work over family life.

Session 3 saw me move on with my work.

After the sessions I felt incredibly energised and focussed and they really clarified what I wanted to do and where I wanted to be.

A few months on, finally, I am also able to use some of what I worked on with Claire to make sure others in similar situations have a compassionate and empathetic other to discuss and make sense of the complex and fragile eco systems we call schools.

D. Primary Deputy Head

“Great presentation. Claire was very inspiring. Wish you could come and spend a day with all our staff”

“Thank you – I love these sessions and am spreading the word with colleagues. So useful to have these sessions. I love the ongoing interactions and your nuggets of wisdom!”

“Self-Care and Self-Compassion” Session at The Wellbeing Lab for Teachers and EY Practitioners

Question asked on evaluation sheet: What impact has The Hive had on you since the previous session?:

“Taking time for myself, maintaining a work-life balance.”

“Feel more confident that I am doing the best I can.”

“Better awareness of self-care and taking time to reflect and not put pressure on myself.”

“Looking at the impact of work I do and how much I gain.”

“Building the Dream Team” Session.

“You just nail it every time!! Claire was amazing again! So knowledgeable and connects with everyone because she’s been in our shoes! Thank you - we should have one at the start of every term.”

“Choosing Self-Care” Session

Question asked on evaluation sheet: “What aspects did you benefit from today?”

“Makes you think about what is achievable”

“Reflection, nice to discuss things in a big group. Positive thinking.”

“Reminders about how to prioritise and change mindsets.”

“Time to share with others and reflect on perceptions.”

“The opportunity to reflect on my own reactions/thought processes.”

“Further understanding on how to manage my own stresses.”

“Feeling Good, Teaching Well” Session