Cairn Practice
Helping people make sense of complexity, decisions and change, and find a way forward
Online · In person · Outdoors
Coaching
A space to think things through, untangle experiences and find a way to move forward
How I work
My approach is grounded in careful listening and constructive challenge where helpful
About Me
I have spent most of my working life helping people and organisations think, learn and navigate change across a wide range of situations and sectors
Learning Consultancy
I also offer consultancy and project support for organisations looking to develop people, capability and learning culture
A cairn doesn't point the way forward, but it confirms you're not lost.
Cairn Practice is based on this idea - coaching that is positive, attentive and focused on helping people find clarity in real-world challenges.
Let's start a conversation
If you’d like to explore what you’re looking for or if coaching might be helpful, get in touch - no obligation, no pressure.
Email: [email protected]
Or drop me a message below
Coaching
You may be:• Facing change, uncertainty or complexity
• Leading others while carrying significant responsibility
• Considering a career move or life transition
• Feeling stuck, overwhelmed or pulled in different directions
• Looking for greater clarity, confidence or perspective
• Simply needing space to thinkWhatever brings you here, coaching offers the opportunity to pause, reflect and explore what matters most.I work with people who are trying to make sense of situations that are not straightforward. Together, we create space to untangle thoughts, explore different perspectives and identify what feels right for you.Coaching conversations often involve:• Working through change or transition
• Clarifying priorities and next steps
• Exploring decisions and their implications
• Building confidence in your own thinking and judgement
• Finding a way forward when things feel uncertainMy role is not to provide answers or tell you what to do. It is to listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions and help you see your situation more clearly, particularly when the way forward feels difficult to find.
Outdoor coaching
As a qualified Mountain Leader, I also offer coaching in outdoor environments where appropriate. Many people find that natural surroundings, rather than an office or a screen, can support a whole new range of reflections and fresh perspectives.
Sessions will be scheduled to suit and a free introductory conversation is available.
How I work
My role is to create a calm, steady space where thoughts can be unpacked without judgement or pressure. A large part of my experience comes from working in conversations where people are under emotional or personal strain and where being heard clearly can make a real difference.
In practice, this means:
• Listening carefully and without agenda
• Reflecting and reframing what I hear
• Seeing patterns and perspectives more clearly
• Identifying what’s important amid competing demands
• Taking the next step, rather than solving everything at once
• Working at your pace, not mineThe first conversation is an opportunity to explore what brings you to coaching, what you hope to achieve and whether we are a good fit to work together. We will also discuss the coaching process, expectations and a timetable that works for you.
About Me
I have spent over a decade in a role that supports people through complex and often emotionally difficult situations. This has shaped my ability to listen deeply, stay present when things are not straightforward and help people make sense of what they are facing. I also train and mentor new volunteers, helping them develop confidence in listening and supporting others.I am equally comfortable working in structured professional environments, having also spent time in offices, boardrooms and organisational settings where clarity and communication across different levels are essential.As a learning industry professional, my experience spans software, IT, engineering, legal, pharmaceuticals, retail, financial services, education and the charity sector. Over the years, this work has included designing learning approaches, developing and delivering programmes, working with stakeholders at all levels and supporting organisations and individuals through change.I also teach music and am a qualified Mountain Leader, with experience of climbing, hiking, kayaking, running and cycling across the world. These experiences, whether in natural or creative settings, have taught me the value of attention, patience and working with what is present rather than forcing outcomes.
Learning Consultancy
This work may include:
• Learning and development strategies
• Leadership development
• Supporting organisational change
• Developing a learning culture and capabilities
• Programme design and facilitation
• Project support
My focus is on helping organisations think clearly and practically about how people learn and perform in real working environments.