Stitch n bitch are social sewing sessions aimed at people who love getting together over a glass of wine and with some music on to work on garments, discuss designs, encourage and celebrate sewing. Machines and food and drinks all provided.
Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Differentiate between coaching and mentoring and understand their unique purposes. Apply effective communication and active listening skills in developmental conversations. Use coaching models to guide structured conversations. Build trust and psychological safety in coaching and mentoring relationships. Create actionable development plans and track progress. Understand ethical boundaries and confidentiality. Course Outline Day 1: Foundations of Coaching and Mentoring Session 1: Introduction and Context What is coaching? What is mentoring? Key differences and when to use each Benefits to individuals and organisations Session 2: Core Skills for Effective Coaching and Mentoring Active listening Powerful questioning Giving and receiving feedback Empathy and emotional intelligence Session 3: Building Trust and Creating Psychological Safety Establishing rapport Confidentiality and ethical guidelines Setting boundaries and expectations Session 4: Coaching Models and Frameworks GROW Model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will) OSKAR and CLEAR frameworks Practical application and role play Day 2: Practising and Embedding Coaching and Mentoring Session 5: The Coaching and Mentoring Conversation Structuring conversations Using real-life workplace examples Practice with feedback Session 6: Setting Goals and Development Plans SMART and CLEAR goal setting Creating growth-focused action plans Monitoring progress and accountability Session 7: Mentoring for Career and Leadership Development Mentor roles and responsibilities Supporting long-term growth and resilience Reverse mentoring and cross-generational partnerships Session 8: Embedding a Coaching and Mentoring Culture How to support coaching within your team or organisation Integrating into performance conversations Sustaining development through peer coaching and communities of practice Assessment and Evaluation Participation in discussions and practical activities Feedback on peer coaching/mentoring exercises Optional personal development plan submission Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Coaching and mentoring toolkit (templates, models, guides) Suggested reading and resource list
Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Differentiate between coaching and mentoring and understand their unique purposes. Apply effective communication and active listening skills in developmental conversations. Use coaching models to guide structured conversations. Build trust and psychological safety in coaching and mentoring relationships. Create actionable development plans and track progress. Understand ethical boundaries and confidentiality. Course Outline Day 1: Foundations of Coaching and Mentoring Session 1: Introduction and Context What is coaching? What is mentoring? Key differences and when to use each Benefits to individuals and organisations Session 2: Core Skills for Effective Coaching and Mentoring Active listening Powerful questioning Giving and receiving feedback Empathy and emotional intelligence Session 3: Building Trust and Creating Psychological Safety Establishing rapport Confidentiality and ethical guidelines Setting boundaries and expectations Session 4: Coaching Models and Frameworks GROW Model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will) OSKAR and CLEAR frameworks Practical application and role play Day 2: Practising and Embedding Coaching and Mentoring Session 5: The Coaching and Mentoring Conversation Structuring conversations Using real-life workplace examples Practice with feedback Session 6: Setting Goals and Development Plans SMART and CLEAR goal setting Creating growth-focused action plans Monitoring progress and accountability Session 7: Mentoring for Career and Leadership Development Mentor roles and responsibilities Supporting long-term growth and resilience Reverse mentoring and cross-generational partnerships Session 8: Embedding a Coaching and Mentoring Culture How to support coaching within your team or organisation Integrating into performance conversations Sustaining development through peer coaching and communities of practice Assessment and Evaluation Participation in discussions and practical activities Feedback on peer coaching/mentoring exercises Optional personal development plan submission Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Coaching and mentoring toolkit (templates, models, guides) Suggested reading and resource list
March Meditation is an introductory pre session to a new series: Inner Glow, Outer Flow beginning in April. This month, on Sunday 23rd March, we will be led in a guided meditation. Our brilliant guest therapist will help to bring awareness to each part of our body to start to release tension, quiet the mind, and restore balance; getting us present to our current mind/body/spirit posture. The cost of this session is £25 and for those in the Bitty ⭕️, this session is included in your membership. 🧡 The full 5 week course will be a powerful blend of introspective work, guided meditation, dance, yoga and movement, we will help unlock the radiant energy within and express it fully in the way we self talk, walk, move and show up in the world. This is an invitation to embody your most empowered, authentic self. It begins this Sunday. (The full course will begin in April). Look out for the “Inner Glow Outer Flow” tab for full details coming soon.
When it comes to writing a research paper, the discussion chapter is where the magic happens. It's not just about presenting your findings; it's about showcasing them in a way that resonates with your audience. You want to take your readers on a journey through your research, helping them understand not just the results but their significance as well. In this article, I’ll share some essential tips on how to effectively showcase your research in the discussion chapter, ensuring that your hard work gets the recognition it deserves. Understanding the Discussion Chapter Definition and Role So, what exactly is the discussion chapter? Think of it as the heart of your research paper. Here, you interpret and analyze your results, linking them back to your research questions. It’s the section where you reveal the implications of your findings and discuss their relevance in the broader context of your field. If you’re wondering how to navigate this crucial part, check out our guide on How To Write a Dissertation Discussion for a detailed approach. Differences from Other Chapters Unlike the results chapter, which focuses on presenting data, the discussion is where you dive deeper into what those results mean. It’s about connecting the dots and making sense of the numbers. You’re not just stating what you found; you’re telling a story about why it matters. Structuring Your Discussion Organizing Key Points A well-structured discussion is crucial for effectively showcasing your research. Start by organizing your key points logically. This might mean discussing each research question in turn or grouping findings by theme. Whatever structure you choose, ensure it flows naturally from one point to the next. Using Subheadings Don’t underestimate the power of subheadings. They guide your reader through your discussion, making it easier to follow your train of thought. Subheadings also break up the text, making your discussion more visually appealing. Interpreting Your Findings Analyzing Results Now comes the fun part: interpreting your findings. Take a close look at your results and analyze them thoroughly. What trends do you see? Are there any surprising outcomes? This is your chance to showcase your critical thinking skills and provide insights that go beyond the data. Linking to Research Questions Always link your interpretations back to your research questions. This creates a cohesive narrative and reinforces the significance of your work. By showing how your findings answer these questions, you strengthen your argument and highlight the relevance of your research. Contextualizing Your Research Comparing with Previous Studies To truly showcase your research, it’s essential to place it within the context of existing literature. Compare your findings with previous studies and discuss how they align or diverge. This not only shows your understanding of the field but also underscores the contributions your research makes to the ongoing conversation. Highlighting Unique Contributions Don’t be shy about highlighting what makes your research unique. What new perspectives or insights do you bring to the table? By emphasizing these contributions, you demonstrate the value of your work and why it deserves attention. Discussing Implications Practical Applications What can your findings be used for in the real world? Discussing practical applications is a great way to showcase the impact of your research. Whether it’s informing policy decisions, guiding future research, or improving practices in your field, make sure to highlight these implications. Theoretical Implications In addition to practical applications, consider the theoretical implications of your research. How does it contribute to existing theories or frameworks? Discussing these implications can elevate your work and showcase your understanding of the broader context. Addressing Limitations Acknowledging Weaknesses Every research project has its limitations. Acknowledging these weaknesses shows integrity and a nuanced understanding of your work. Discuss what limitations might affect the interpretation of your results and how they could be addressed in future research. Suggestions for Future Research Don’t just stop at acknowledging limitations—offer suggestions for future research. What questions remain unanswered? What directions could future studies take? This not only demonstrates your critical thinking but also positions your work as a stepping stone for others. Using Visual Aids Charts and Graphs Visual aids can be a powerful tool for showcasing your research. Use charts, graphs, or tables to present your data in a way that’s easy to understand. Visuals can help highlight key findings and make complex information more digestible. Effective Data Presentation Ensure that your visuals are clear and well-labeled. A confusing graph can detract from your discussion rather than enhance it. Take the time to present your data effectively, and your readers will appreciate the effort. Incorporating Feedback Utilizing Peer Reviews Feedback from peers can be invaluable when writing your discussion chapter. Don’t hesitate to seek out input from colleagues or mentors. Their insights can help you refine your arguments and enhance the clarity of your writing. Adjustments Based on Critiques Once you receive feedback, be open to making adjustments. Sometimes, outside perspectives can reveal blind spots in your reasoning or highlight areas for improvement that you might not have considered. Engaging Your Audience Writing Style and Tone Your writing style plays a significant role in engaging your audience. Aim for a conversational tone that invites readers in. Avoid jargon where possible, and strive for clarity in your explanations. Rhetorical Questions for Engagement Using rhetorical questions can be an effective way to engage your readers. It prompts them to think critically about the points you’re making and can make your discussion feel more interactive. Proofreading and Editing Importance of Clarity Once you’ve drafted your discussion, take the time to proofread and edit. Clarity is key; a well-written discussion is much easier to follow. Check for grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and ensure your arguments flow logically. Common Mistakes to Avoid Watch out for common pitfalls, such as over-explaining or being too vague. Aim for a balance that conveys your insights without overwhelming your reader. Conclusion In conclusion, showcasing your research in the discussion chapter is all about clarity, context, and engagement. By structuring your discussion thoughtfully, interpreting your findings, and addressing limitations, you can effectively communicate the significance of your research. Remember, this is your chance to shine and demonstrate the value of your hard work. FAQs What is the purpose of the discussion chapter? The discussion chapter interprets the results of your research, linking them back to your research questions and placing them in the context of existing literature. How do I interpret my findings effectively? Analyze your results, identify trends, and connect them back to your research questions to demonstrate their significance. Should I include limitations in my research? Yes, acknowledging limitations shows integrity and a nuanced understanding of your work. It also opens up avenues for future research. How can I make my discussion engaging? Use a conversational tone, incorporate rhetorical questions, and structure your arguments clearly to keep your audience interested. What are common pitfalls to avoid in this chapter? Be cautious of over-explaining, using jargon, or failing to connect your findings back to your research questions.
Course Duration: Half-day, 1-day, or modular delivery over 2–3 sessions Target Audience: Managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and employees who want to foster trust, openness, and inclusivity within their teams or organisations. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept and importance of psychological safety. Recognise how psychological safety impacts team performance and wellbeing. Identify behaviours and practices that support or undermine psychological safety. Develop strategies to create inclusive, respectful, and open team cultures. Apply tools to encourage constructive feedback, innovation, and open dialogue. Course Outline Module 1: What is Psychological Safety? Definition and origin (Dr Amy Edmondson’s research) Why psychological safety matters: the business and human case Link between psychological safety, innovation, collaboration, and retention Misconceptions: It’s not about comfort or avoiding challenge Module 2: Assessing the Current Environment Signs of a psychologically safe vs unsafe environment Common team behaviours and leadership pitfalls Self-assessment: how psychologically safe is my team? Module 3: Building the Foundations The four stages of psychological safety: Inclusion safety Learner safety Contributor safety Challenger safety Role of trust, empathy, and emotional intelligence The leader’s role in creating safe environments Module 4: Practical Strategies to Foster Safety Encouraging open communication and constructive disagreement Creating space for risk-taking and vulnerability Responding to feedback and mistakes without blame Speaking up behaviours – how to model and support them Module 5: Embedding Psychological Safety into Team Culture Meeting practices that promote psychological safety How to give and receive feedback safely Inclusive decision-making and respectful challenge Recognising and rewarding candour and contribution Module 6: Leading with Psychological Safety Coaching conversations and active listening Managing difficult conversations and underperformance safely Supporting neurodiverse or marginalised voices Sustaining safety under pressure and during change Delivery Style Facilitated discussions and group work Role plays, reflection activities, and real-life scenarios Peer learning and action planning Optional pre-work or post-session surveys Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Psychological safety assessment toolkit Conversation starter guide Leadership checklist for building safety Personal and team action plan Optional Add-ons Team psychological safety assessments (anonymous survey) Post-course coaching or leadership debrief Co-delivery with DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) workshops Integration with feedback or team development programs
Course Duration: 1 or 2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Team leaders, managers, project leads, HR professionals, and change champions responsible for initiating or supporting change within their teams or organisations. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the dynamics and psychology of organisational change. Apply change models to plan and implement change effectively. Communicate change with clarity and empathy. Anticipate and manage resistance to change. Sustain momentum and embed change in culture and practice. Course Outline Module 1: The Nature of Change Why change initiatives succeed or fail Types of organisational change (strategic, cultural, technological, etc.) The human side of change: uncertainty, fear, and motivation Change vs transformation Module 2: Change Management Models Lewin’s Change Model (Unfreeze–Change–Refreeze) Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model ADKAR (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) Choosing and applying the right model for your context Module 3: Planning and Leading Change Assessing readiness and mapping stakeholders Creating a compelling vision for change Developing a change plan and roadmap Roles and responsibilities of leaders and change agents Module 4: Communicating Through Change Crafting key messages and change narratives Communicating with transparency and empathy Engaging employees and addressing concerns Channels, timing, and frequency of communication Module 5: Managing Resistance and Building Buy-In Identifying sources of resistance Strategies to understand and reduce resistance Building coalitions and early adopters Creating participation and ownership Module 6: Embedding and Sustaining Change Reinforcement strategies and recognition Aligning systems, structures, and behaviours Monitoring progress and adjusting plans Measuring change success (KPIs, feedback loops) Module 7: Leading Yourself Through Change Emotional resilience and adaptability Supporting your team while navigating uncertainty Mindsets for change leadership Self-reflection and personal action plan Delivery Style Interactive workshops with case studies and real-life examples Group discussions, change simulations, and planning activities Practical tools and templates for immediate workplace use Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Change management templates (e.g. stakeholder map, change comms plan) Change models quick reference guide Personal action plan template Optional Add-ons Custom case study based on your organisation’s current change program Post-course coaching or implementation support Manager toolkit for cascading change conversations
Course Duration: Half-day, 1-day, or modular delivery over 2–3 sessions Target Audience: Managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and employees who want to foster trust, openness, and inclusivity within their teams or organisations. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept and importance of psychological safety. Recognise how psychological safety impacts team performance and wellbeing. Identify behaviours and practices that support or undermine psychological safety. Develop strategies to create inclusive, respectful, and open team cultures. Apply tools to encourage constructive feedback, innovation, and open dialogue. Course Outline Module 1: What is Psychological Safety? Definition and origin (Dr Amy Edmondson’s research) Why psychological safety matters: the business and human case Link between psychological safety, innovation, collaboration, and retention Misconceptions: It’s not about comfort or avoiding challenge Module 2: Assessing the Current Environment Signs of a psychologically safe vs unsafe environment Common team behaviours and leadership pitfalls Self-assessment: how psychologically safe is my team? Module 3: Building the Foundations The four stages of psychological safety: Inclusion safety Learner safety Contributor safety Challenger safety Role of trust, empathy, and emotional intelligence The leader’s role in creating safe environments Module 4: Practical Strategies to Foster Safety Encouraging open communication and constructive disagreement Creating space for risk-taking and vulnerability Responding to feedback and mistakes without blame Speaking up behaviours – how to model and support them Module 5: Embedding Psychological Safety into Team Culture Meeting practices that promote psychological safety How to give and receive feedback safely Inclusive decision-making and respectful challenge Recognising and rewarding candour and contribution Module 6: Leading with Psychological Safety Coaching conversations and active listening Managing difficult conversations and underperformance safely Supporting neurodiverse or marginalised voices Sustaining safety under pressure and during change Delivery Style Facilitated discussions and group work Role plays, reflection activities, and real-life scenarios Peer learning and action planning Optional pre-work or post-session surveys Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Psychological safety assessment toolkit Conversation starter guide Leadership checklist for building safety Personal and team action plan Optional Add-ons Team psychological safety assessments (anonymous survey) Post-course coaching or leadership debrief Co-delivery with DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) workshops Integration with feedback or team development programs
Course Duration: 1 or 2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Team leaders, managers, project leads, HR professionals, and change champions responsible for initiating or supporting change within their teams or organisations. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the dynamics and psychology of organisational change. Apply change models to plan and implement change effectively. Communicate change with clarity and empathy. Anticipate and manage resistance to change. Sustain momentum and embed change in culture and practice. Course Outline Module 1: The Nature of Change Why change initiatives succeed or fail Types of organisational change (strategic, cultural, technological, etc.) The human side of change: uncertainty, fear, and motivation Change vs transformation Module 2: Change Management Models Lewin’s Change Model (Unfreeze–Change–Refreeze) Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model ADKAR (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) Choosing and applying the right model for your context Module 3: Planning and Leading Change Assessing readiness and mapping stakeholders Creating a compelling vision for change Developing a change plan and roadmap Roles and responsibilities of leaders and change agents Module 4: Communicating Through Change Crafting key messages and change narratives Communicating with transparency and empathy Engaging employees and addressing concerns Channels, timing, and frequency of communication Module 5: Managing Resistance and Building Buy-In Identifying sources of resistance Strategies to understand and reduce resistance Building coalitions and early adopters Creating participation and ownership Module 6: Embedding and Sustaining Change Reinforcement strategies and recognition Aligning systems, structures, and behaviours Monitoring progress and adjusting plans Measuring change success (KPIs, feedback loops) Module 7: Leading Yourself Through Change Emotional resilience and adaptability Supporting your team while navigating uncertainty Mindsets for change leadership Self-reflection and personal action plan Delivery Style Interactive workshops with case studies and real-life examples Group discussions, change simulations, and planning activities Practical tools and templates for immediate workplace use Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Change management templates (e.g. stakeholder map, change comms plan) Change models quick reference guide Personal action plan template Optional Add-ons Custom case study based on your organisation’s current change program Post-course coaching or implementation support Manager toolkit for cascading change conversations
Course Overview This practical, one-day course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills, tools and confidence to effectively facilitate discussions, meetings, and workshops. Whether you're guiding a team brainstorming session, leading a stakeholder workshop, or managing a complex meeting, strong facilitation skills can dramatically improve outcomes and engagement. Participants will learn how to plan and structure sessions, manage group dynamics, keep discussions on track, and handle challenging behaviours—all while creating a collaborative and inclusive environment. The course combines theory with hands-on activities, group discussions, and real-world scenarios to build practical, transferable skills. Who Should Attend This course is ideal for: Project managers Team leaders and supervisors Business analysts Community engagement officers Policy officers Trainers and consultants Anyone responsible for leading meetings or workshops No prior facilitation experience is necessary. Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Understand the role and mindset of an effective facilitator Plan and design structured facilitation sessions Use a range of facilitation tools and techniques to encourage participation Manage group dynamics, including difficult participants and off-topic conversations Apply active listening, summarising and questioning techniques Create safe, inclusive and engaging environments for diverse groups Maintain neutrality and guide discussions to achieve desired outcomes Course Content 1. Introduction to Facilitation What is facilitation? Key differences between facilitation, presentation and training The mindset of an effective facilitator 2. Planning for Success Clarifying session purpose and outcomes Structuring the session: openings, transitions, closings Selecting the right tools and approaches for your audience 3. Core Facilitation Techniques Questioning strategies (open, probing, clarifying) Active listening and reflection Encouraging balanced participation Visual facilitation basics (whiteboards, templates, sticky notes) 4. Managing Group Dynamics Reading the room and adapting your approach Handling dominant or disengaged participants Dealing with conflict or resistance constructively Techniques for decision-making and consensus-building 5. Practice and Feedback Facilitated role-plays and group exercises Constructive peer and trainer feedback Personal action planning Delivery Method This course is delivered in a highly interactive, face-to-face or virtual format. It includes a blend of short presentations, group work, facilitated discussions and hands-on activities to embed learning. Inclusions Comprehensive participant workbook and toolkit Facilitator guides and templates Certificate of completion Optional post-course coaching (available on request)