Chris Henley Speaker | Languages & Teacher CPD & Literacy

Chris Henley

An inspirational teacher and a passionate believer in the young people of today

Chris is the bestselling co-author of ‘The Art of Being a Brilliant Teacher’ (shortlisted for the Education Resources Awards' Educational Book of the Year Award 2017). Teaching is an art; with the right techniques, guidance, skills and practice you can masterfully face any situation the classroom could throw at you. I think we can safely say that Chris is a model of enthusiasm... and it’s catching!

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. He became Assistant Head with responsibility for Teaching and Learning, and played a major role in the school’s outstanding Ofsted report. Chris is a larger than life character who inspires all involved in the business of education. Chris calls teaching the best job in the world.

Chris Henley and co-author Gary Toward have 70 years' combined experience between them, or put differently they have taught best part of 50,000 lessons. They have extensive experience of leading schools and have fast achieved a reputation as inspiring speakers and trainers both in the UK and internationally.

With fresh perspectives, sage advice and a hint of silliness, Chris will show you how to unleash your brilliance. Outside of the classroom, Chris is a qualified cricket umpire.

Chris co-wrote ‘The Art of being a Brilliant Teacher' with Gary Toward. Gary and Chris present together on a regular basis as a ‘double act’ which proves very popular with audiences.

Testimonials from Teachers

"Superb day yesterday. Chris was outstanding. Many thanks!"

– Geoffrey Howe, The Leys

"I just wanted to drop you a note to say a huge thank you for your work today. You were truly inspiring and your energy infectious!"

– Assistant Headteacher, Pakefield High School

"I thought Chris was excellent. His energy and passion is infectious and he kept the room engaged throughout. Plenty of resources and ideas and I liked the way he delivered the session. Doing long conferences can lead to those involved switching off so I liked how involved he was with moving himself and the NQTs around and keeping everyone focused."

– Aaron Blumfield, St John's School

"It was absolutely great. His speech was perfect for the trainee teachers. Thank you so much!"

– Pippa Procter, Durham SCITT

"There is some really positive feedback about your session on the evaluation forms, particularly about the practical tips that you shared."

– Siobhan Anderson, Head of Psychology and Teacher Training, St John's School

"Thanks for everything yesterday. I think you inspired a lot of the staff and, from talking to them today, they’re already using some of your ideas in class."

– Leon Walmsley, St Mary's College Blackburn

"A truly inspirational duo full of knowledge and useful tips which you haven’t already heard. Their workshops are guaranteed to make you both laugh and learn!"

– Danielle Campos, ATL Regional Organiser-Midlands

"I've used the ideas presented both within my teaching to get the best out of my students and in leading my staff to become an outstanding department, commended highly by both Ofsted and HMI"

– Mark Haughan, Head of Art, Design and Technology, South Charnwood High School

"We thoroughly enjoyed our morning with you, you were truly inspirational! Lots of great feedback from the staff."

– Lynne McCormack, Deputy Head, Haughton School