Armed Forces

It really is lovely that the assessor writes such encouraging comments. I appreciate they don’t need to and therefore appreciate the fact that they do. It really is so encouraging when someone for instance, writes “thank you” and tells you they’ve enjoyed reading something you’ve written. I’m so loving every bit of this course. Clare I am so grateful to you and the team for all the hard work that goes into making this such a valuable experience.

I came into the ILM L7 in Executive Coaching programme, describing myself as a collaborative, coaching style leader in education. Without formal training, I was often advising with questions rather than truly coaching. The L7 has fundamentally shifted my practice from intuitive support to disciplined, non-directive coaching. I now create space for genuine professional thinking in school leaders, which has strengthened autonomy, deepened insight and reduced dependency across my teams. It’s not just changed how I coach; it’s changed how I lead across schools, with a much sharper focus on developing others and building sustainable leadership capacity. Scott Preston May 2026

“I’m just two and a half months into my studying for the ILM Level 5 Diploma in Coaching & Mentoring. I noted the other day whilst completing my reflective journal just how much I have already learned and developed as an individual through my study, reading and engagement. Not only am I benefiting others through being a coach (hopefully) but I feel I am truly coaching and developing myself and the way I approach and tackle issues and challenges. My only regret is not starting this qualification three years ago when I thought I was too busy!! That’s three years of self development and potential advancement lost!! The lesson: If you want to do something then do it! Don’t delay!! We often regret the things we don’t do but rarely the things we do do!!”

Mark Woods, Fire & Rescue

I am really enjoying the course so far, there are so many amazing resources available, and the level of support is really great. I really enjoyed the introduction to coaching webinar I found that one super inspiring!

As a manager I have learnt to value others differences this is something I did not consider previously. This has allowed me to become a better manager I have found myself stepping up as a leader to my team. Also the models and methods learnt during this course have allowed me to make proposals using ACCURATE information this allows me to confidently support my proposals. The organisation has benefited from my participation in that I am much more aware of organisational strategy and how it links through the organisation. I feel much more confident about my management and leadership abilities and feel confident to tackle more complex decisions and design operational strategies.

Clare really encouraged me to think about what influences me and how I can change and cope/deal with these situations in a very positive way – the coaching has really made me stop and think and has allowed me to not let things worry me. I feel I have made significant progress with my career because of these sessions. It was also brilliant to do these sessions face-to-face that made a real difference and it was never rushed! Clare has been a fantastic coach and tutor – she has always answered my calls and emails (even when they weren’t scheduled!!) and she would give very good detailed advice whenever she could. She has been very supportive and has really encouraged me to stick at things, especially whilst I was experiencing personal and professional problems.

I will really miss Claire’s advice and support – it’s been great to know I can talk to someone outside of school on matters of concern. Thank you Claire for being a great coach – I promise to keep in touch and update you on my progress.