We've got a growing band of brilliant trainers and coaches who will add sparkle to your business or school. The brilliant delivery team is enhanced by the presence of Tony Seymour, the world’s number one client account manager, and Jackie Rawling - our ‘unsung hero’.
How do you recruit people to run ‘The Art of Being Brilliant’?
They need to know their onions; they need to have bags of positivity, energy and an ability to bring the training to life. They need to be a bit odd too (as in ‘unusual odd’ not ‘scary odd’). If you don't believe me, check the profiles below... an eclectic mix of authors, radio DJs, comedians, dog listeners, cricket umpires and mountaineers! What we all share is our common philosophy, our love of simplicity and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Andy Cope
Andy Cope describes himself as a "professional trainer, qualified teacher, author and learning junkie". He is currently doing a Doctorate at the University of Loughborough... investigating the science of happiness and positivity.
He founded 'Art of Brilliance' in 2004. His aim, to blaze a new trail – one that was non-academic, totally rooted in the real world and that would make a massive and immediate impact on individuals and organisations. The business is growing rapidly and Andy has chosen to work with a small group of like-minded trainers, specifically chosen because of their desire to make a difference.
Andy has a passion for motivation and positive psychology and is trying to influence people to think differently. He has delivered 'The Art of Being Brilliant' to rave reviews in businesses and schools throughout the UK, Middle East and Southern Africa. "The focus is on translating some of the highbrow academia into clear, simple messages that everyone can take on board."
'Being Brilliant', published in December 2006, is Andy's attempt to translate some of the themes of his workshops into a very simple story. "Delegates like the simplicity of the workshops, so the book is an extension of the messages. Hopefully I can reach a larger audience and more people will take the positive ideas on board. 'Being Brilliant' is ridiculously simple. I tried to write something that it would be idiotic to ignore."
Andy has also written ‘The Art of Being Brilliant’ for adults and ‘A Brilliant Life’ for teenagers. He is the best-selling author of the children’s ‘Spy Dog’ and 'Spy Pups' series (aimed at 7+). The series has sold almost a million copies worldwide.
What they're saying about Andy Cope
On my way home last night I turned on the radio and sang all the way home (good job no one was in the car to listen to my tone, but hey I was happy!) and as I drove along Corporation Street, although I had “right of way” on the traffic flowing through the road, I put my hand up and thanked everyone who had stopped to let me through. When I got home I thought about the four minute rule and my youngest son Tom actually stopped his X-box game and looked up to say “Wow Mum, you’re happy!” that was the best thing ever and made me determined to carry on and be a 2% person! (working mum!)
Just to say what a fab day last friday was. I so enjoyed the whole experience. I feel that I am a 2% kind of person but after 15 years at xxxxx it was nearly beaten out of me! I soak up this kind of approach and came home to my husband exclaiming that the over riding message I had come away with was that what was inside my head was not real, to which he responded by saying he had been telling me that for the past 30 years! There was a real buzz throughout business that day and one that I have never experienced on such a large scale. I hope you come back to make sure we stay brilliant! (public sector delegate)
Hi Andy... You probably won’t remember me but I thought I’d drop you a line to say thanks! Since attending your Art of being Brill course in October last year, my life has changed immensely. Things were going very crap but now I've bounced back and things are great thanks to your course! Cheers dude! (public sector delegate)
Thank you so much for such an entertaining and inspiring talk that you gave on Tuesday. It is very rare that you get to listen to someone who offers something that you realize will change your whole attitude to life and impact on your thought process. You have certainly inspired me to strive for being brilliant and positive. I found myself energized and with a different perspective to life and the way that I am going to interact with people. I am certainly going to continue on this journey, as I already feel the tiny steps I have made have made a difference to me. (teacher)
Andy Whittaker
Check out Andy Whittaker's video. Comedy face or what? Andy has been described as the best thing to come out of Morecambe since the M6 motorway. He is Lancashire's answer to Anthony Robbins (great big fella from America who does an amazing job of motivating people and walks on fire). Andy is also a very nice bloke.
Andy is firmly rooted in the real world. He can talk in big words but prefers not to, instead focusing on bringing his life experiences into play, connecting with people from all walks of life. He has spent time observing behaviour in companies big and small. More importantly, he has spent his time learning about leadership, communication, human interaction and positive psychology. Andy is a certified trainer in the art and science of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a master of Time Line Therapy and a qualified hypnotist. Andy has a passion for learning. He is an advocate of the principles of accelerated learning and uses the techniques to bring training to life. He is firmly rooted at the modern end of the personal development spectrum and has trained in businesses throughout the UK and South Africa.
The 'Art of Brilliance' team has recently adapted their hugely successful business leaders' programme to meet the needs of teachers, parents and teenagers. Andy W is at the forefront of school delivery.
Andy has co-written ‘The Art of Being Brilliant’ as well as teaming up with Andy Cope to produce a 5 CD series of the same name.
What they're saying about Andy Whittaker
Art of Brilliance was an amazing course; the literature was delivered with excitement and enthusiasm. Andy was funny, clever and knowledgeable. 10/10.
I personally thought Andy was brilliant, and he kept my attention for the whole day. I was disappointed when the day ended and left on a high. I had set myself a challenge to work on the many mood hoovers in my department, and not allow them to bring the others down!!! You have to have a positive mental attitude to succeed. I can make a difference!!
I thought it was excellent. One of the best courses I have been on, where the subjects kept my attention right to the very end. It was spot on the way it showed how most of us lose motivation and face the day negatively from the moment we get up, plus how it affects others. Even though it touched on serious subjects, it made you more aware and was extremely funny. I feel that from experiencing it and laughing with it, at the end of it it made you want to make more effort and look at areas where you can improve yourself and feel better.
I thoroughly enjoyed both sessions I attended run by Andy Whittaker. I was laughing from start to finish, which in itself makes you feel good. Although a lot of the content was the same on both occasions, a different mix of people means different responses, and it's very interesting to see what people come up with. Andy delivers the courses with such humour and enthusiasm I defy anyone to come out without feeling a little bit more positive than when they went in. He has missed his vocation - he should be on the stage! In the light of the huge reorganisation going on within our workplace at the moment something like this can help you focus on the positive rather than the negative, and encourages you to make the best of whatever happens - we all have the choice to try to be brilliant at whatever we do.
Darrell Woodman
For over 12 years Darrell has spent time (and blood, sweat and tears) helping develop talent in the media industry. Instilling positivity, confidence and belief has been a major factor in his coaching of people and teams from radio stations in Sheffield, Hull and Wolverhampton (he likes the glamorous locations). He has many proud moments in his career, but none more so than seeing individuals achieving and feeling greatness - greatness which has been recognised by numerous prestigious radio awards.
Darrell is married with 2 wonderful boys and his lifetime goal (apart from being the best Dad on the planet) is to inspire millions of young people across the world. When he started in the Radio Industry his mentor told him “Developing radio talent can be tough, but as long as you remember that they are essentially insecure children it will help!”
It’s funny how life comes full circle. Darrell now spearheads the delivery of ‘The Art of Being Brilliant’ in schools so is nurturing positivity in 10 year olds as opposed to those who act like 10 year olds!
Darrell also delivers corporate keynotes and workshops based around the themes of positivity, happiness, wellbeing and flourishing. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as well as our core values of simplicity, energy and fun.
Tony Seymour
Tony is a qualified coach, NLP Practitioner, public speaker, facilitator and client account manager. He brings an enviable track record of successful business development and client relationship management experience to the 'Art of Brilliance' team, having spent nearly two decades working in the people development arena and as a key account manager in the education sector.
Tony has worked with dozens of high profile clients in private and public sector organisations. His passion is people development and ensuring the right learning solutions are sought to achieve maximum benefit for delegates and their organisations. In other words, if you need to explore a variety of ideas for practical and innovative programmes of leadership, management, coaching skills or other development needs, Tony’s your man.
He also assists our customers in deciding if accreditation by an awarding body (be it the ILM or CMI) would be suitable for their training programme. Tony’s primary role therefore, is to look after our customers brilliantly! Tony is to client services what spotted dick is to custard!
Jackie Rawling
‘Art of Brilliance Ltd’ wouldn’t be what it is without Jackie. She brings professionalism and an eye for detail as well as an ability to keep us in line. Everybody at our company cares passionately about giving our customers the Wow Factor! We know we have a great message. Jackie helps us get it out there.
She is in charge of the e-commerce side of things. That means that when Andy’s eyes glaze over at the need to get on Facebook and Twitter, Jackie knows how. She’s the brains behind the wonderful emails you receive, and the fab on-line shop.
Jackie also project manages all the difficult stuff and makes things happen, often out of thin air. So while ‘sales, online presence and e-commerce’ is her role, Jackie’s unofficial job title is ‘Unsung Hero’.
Chris Henley
An inspirational teacher and a passionate believer in the young people of today. Chris moved on from leading an outstanding languages department to become a senior leader in charge of Specialist Arts Status in a Leicestershire High School. Chris played a major role in the schools ‘outstanding’ OfSTED report. Chris is a larger than life character and likes to run the school productions. While other schools are sometimes scratching around for volunteers, Chris is inundated with kids wanting to be part of his plays! I think we can safely say that Chris is a model of enthusiasm...and it’s catching!
Outside of the classroom Chris is a keen golfer and cricketer and has reached the heady heights of qualifying as an umpire.
Gary Toward
Gary’s worked in several schools across the UK, in the 10-19 category. This has included being principal of 3 schools in Leicestershire including co-leading a pupil-referral unit out of ‘special measures’. Gary’s spiritual home has been South Wigston High School where he has been head teacher for 10 years. In that period the school has moved from ‘satisfactory’ to ‘outstanding’ and Gary modestly points out that could be a complete coincidence? Or it could be to do with lots of hard work, passion, inspiration, team work and leadership?
Out of school Gary climbs mountains, skis and is a season ticket holder at Leicester Tigers. Being a Geordie, Gary has no choice but to eat, sleep and breathe football. The ups and downs of Newcastle United often feature in school assemblies.
Vicky Bailey
A modern day Wonder Woman, Vicky works with Art of Brilliance Ltd as a facilitator, trainer, coach and mentor with extensive experience of the management and facilitation of change. Known as a solution-focused creative thinker, Vicky’s belief is that all people have the ability to be brilliant at whatever they want to do. Her skill lies in getting clients to flourish by drawing out their signature strengths. Vicky is a qualified NLP practitioner, adult teacher and assessor and is currently studying as a psychotherapist
Walking the walk and talking the talk – Vicky practices her belief in personal and professional develop, currently working with a business coach to develop her skills, knowledge and thinking. She brings experience in project management, strategic development and business planning.
‘Working with people to develop them and seeing those light bulb moments is a joy not to be missed!’
Jo Armstrong
Jo has a passion for keeping it simple. To quote Einstein "Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius - and a lot of courage - to move in the opposite direction."
Drawing on her own experiences, Jo's talent lies in encouraging people to flourish and achieve their true potential. Especially those who may not have had the best opportunities in life, or who've had more than their fair share of challenges. She is currently involved in delivering the Art of Brilliance in schools and communities.
Jo's background is in web development and social media. But she assures us that she doesn't spend ALL day on Facebook.
She's also a qualified dog listener (no, not ‘horses’ and not ‘whispering’) teaching communication, understanding and leadership to dog owners. Spookily enough, the same principles apply to people!
You might have seen her on TV at the world's biggest dog show. Or maybe once in the headline pictures on all the major news channels – but that's a whole different story!
Claire Carpenter
Claire spent many years working in Corporate Banking in the City before she realised she had no interest in finance. She thought with horror of the precious hours, days and years she’d wasted doing something she didn’t much like. One day she decided she’d had enough – she threw away her corporate suits, moved to the seaside and became addicted to self development books.
Great as these books are, Claire realised that they are almost all about “fixing” negative attitudes, habits and beliefs that we develop in childhood. She looked at the small people around her – the next generation – and wondered. Why wait till they’re grown up to fix their negative beliefs and habits? Why not instil the right ones in the first place? Why not teach children that with a positive attitude, strength of character, and a powerful belief in themselves, they can achieve anything they want to in their life?
So she began writing funny and inspiring stories for children, found a fabulous illustrator and created Yes You Can Books. First came Hold on Tight, a bedtime story that encourages young children to hold on tight to their precious dreams. Next came Something Odd... a story that demonstrates the extraordinary power of using positive language. She began delivering workshops in schools encouraging children to believe in themselves and their dreams. It was a very natural step for Claire to join us and she now delivers ‘The Art of Brilliance’ across schools in the South East.
When not writing and teaching ‘Brilliance’, she’ll probably be found on the beach or roller-skating with her children along the seafront. She is very happy that she no longer works in a bank.
Peter Anderton
Peter is passionate about getting the bounce back into life and his boundless energy has led to him being described as the ‘Tigger’ of the corporate world. He is also more than a little bit geeky about alignment - he believes that any organisation, team or individual has already got whatever they need to be successful - all they really need to do is line up in one direction and get out of their own way!
A great coach and an even better facilitator, Peter spends much of his time working as an Organisational Development manager in the corporate world focusing on strategy, change, leadership team development and coaching. That said, Peter also likes to keep things simple – that’s why he loves the messages contained in the ‘Art of Being Brilliant’ and is passionate about getting these principles into kids as early as possible.
Peter is a qualified NLP master practitioner and a chartered member of the CIPD. He is also a chartered engineer, which might explain a weakness for leadership models and diagrams with interlocking circles that he tries to indulge when no-one is looking! Peter is an active member of the Christadelphian Church in Burton and is married to a wonderful woman who doubles as his personal navigation system. They have two wonderful boys.
He’s not a comedian but as his sense of embarrassment is dramatically underdeveloped he is generally good for a laugh. His current challenge is learning to sing ‘Nessun Dorma’ without making up the words before his 40th birthday. Not long to go!
Elizabeth Juffs
Liz is a real-life work-in-progress balancing work, family and other fun stuff... like Art of Brilliance coaching and workshops, other coaching dalliances, husband and two young(ish) children.
A qualified teacher and an Accredited Coach with a Diploma in Life Coaching, Liz enjoys developing young people and adults alike... to help them make so much more of themselves and their lives, building their confidence and skills to get out there and be their best.
She particularly enjoys working in areas like confidence development, achieving goals, time management and minimising stress... drawing on her not inconsiderable kit bag of experience, skills and qualifications.
Liz loves spending time with people... and gathers all manner of social ‘opportunities’ in the process... from chair the governors at her local school through to directing and appearing in pantomimes.
When not coaching she'll be found supporting her family's activities, walking in the Lake District, or hosting hordes... 25 for Christmas dinner anyone? And what does Liz like most about her coaching? "It gives me such a buzz helping the people I work with discover how they are tripping themselves up and then blossoming into new, positive, confident 'go-getters'. Who could ask for a better or more worthwhile job?"
