HELPING ADULTS BETTER UNDERSTAND THE CHILDREN THEY SUPPORT
Over the last decade, I have worked with hundreds of young people and families through education, mentoring and community projects.
Children make more sense when we understand what sits beneath the surface.
Whether we are talking about confidence, behaviour, anxiety, learning difficulties or school avoidance, the challenges we see are often only part of the story.
Through speaking, writing and community conversations, I help parents, educators and organisations look beyond the obvious and better understand the young people they support.
My Story
I did not grow up expecting to become a business owner, speaker or educator.
I grew up on a council estate where opportunities often felt limited and where many young people struggled to see a future beyond their immediate surroundings.
Those experiences shaped my understanding of confidence, resilience and the power of belief.
Today, I lead Mr Gillman Tuition, an education business supporting students across North Somerset, while also developing Beyond Behaviour, a growing collection of talks, resources and conversations focused on confidence, communication and understanding children.
Alongside my professional work, I am actively involved in community projects through Rotary and continue to study inclusion through my Master's degree in Education.
The common thread through all of these experiences is a desire to help people recognise potential, build confidence and create environments where young people can thrive.
Why Beyond Behaviour?
Over the years, I noticed a pattern.
Parents were often asking questions such as:
- • Why is my child so different at home than they are at school?
- • Why do they seem capable but refuse to engage?
- • Why does anxiety appear to be increasing?
- • Why do traditional rewards and consequences sometimes make things worse?
The more I listened, the more I realised that many conversations were focused on behaviour itself rather than the reasons behind it.
Beyond Behaviour was created to explore what sits underneath:
Because when we understand the reason, our response often changes.
What I Speak About
Confidence and Self Belief
Exploring how confidence develops and why it has become one of the most important factors influencing learning and wellbeing.
Behaviour as Communication
Helping adults understand what children may be communicating through their behaviour.
Inclusion and Neurodiversity
Practical approaches to supporting children with diverse needs.
Anxiety and School Avoidance
Understanding the challenges facing young people in today's educational landscape.
Modern Education
Reflections on confidence, technology, AI and what young people need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Who I Work With
My talks, workshops and resources are designed for:
Parents and Carers
Practical insights and strategies that strengthen relationships and improve communication.
Schools and Educational Settings
Staff development, keynote talks and workshops focused on confidence, behaviour and inclusion.
Community Organisations
Supporting groups that work with families, young people and volunteers.
Conferences and Events
Thought-provoking keynote talks that combine professional experience with practical application.
My Philosophy
I believe:
Children are doing the best they can with the skills, experiences and support available to them.
Confidence matters.
Relationships matter.
Understanding matters.
When we understand what sits beneath behaviour, we create better outcomes.
Let's Continue the Conversation
Whether you are a parent looking for support, a school planning a staff event or an organisation seeking a speaker, I would love to hear from you.
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