James Nottingham is regarded by many as one of the most engaging and thought-provoking presenters in the world of education. He brings rare clarity and insight to research evidence; a breadth and depth of exemplar that connects with the reality of teaching and leading; and a sense of story and humour that makes learning stick.

With more than 30 years working in schools, he has an extensive background as both a teacher and a leader. Beginning as a teaching assistant in a special school, he then taught in primary schools, was a teaching & learning lead in a high school, a deputy head in a middle school, and director of an award-winning, multi-million-pound social regeneration project. The impact of this initiative made headlines for all the right reasons – supported by independent evaluations by Sunderland and Newcastle universities – leading to invitations to share his inspiration and practical advice far and wide. So, in 2006, James set up a not-for-profit company, Challenging Learning, growing this to seven companies in seven countries with 30 full-time staff – all supporting schools, colleges and local apprenticeship providers.