James Theard is an experienced educator, counsellor and learning professional whose multidisciplinary career spans more than 25 years across education, counselling, mental health support, adult learning, charitable organisations and information technology.

Education and personal development have formed a significant part of James's professional life. His experience includes working with young people and adults across academic, vocational and community learning environments, including Life Skills, Functional Skills, GCSE and A-Level tuition. He has taught Maths, English and Sciences and supported learners working at different educational levels, including individuals who have benefited from learning approaches tailored to their particular circumstances.

Alongside his educational work, James developed extensive experience in counselling and mental health support. He has worked as a private counsellor, drawing principally on Rogerian person-centred therapy and existential psychotherapy. His counselling experience has included supporting people affected by bereavement, personal trauma and significant life challenges, as well as conducting assessments and making referrals to appropriate mental health services.

James's career has also included work within the charitable sector. He has held roles with Chester & District MIND, Wrexham MIND, the Alzheimer's Society and PAPYRUS, alongside voluntary bereavement counselling with Hope House Children's Hospice. His responsibilities have extended beyond counselling to encompass fundraising, research and data analysis.

Earlier in his career, James worked extensively in computing and information technology, including positions in software training, technical support and ICT education. He taught Computing and ICT at Yale College and subsequently delivered adult and community learning through organisations including Shropshire County Council and Voluntary Action Vale Royal.

James holds a Master of Urban Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with Psychology from New York University. His wider professional development spans counselling, education, assessment, safeguarding and information technology.

Across these different areas, a consistent theme throughout James's career has been communication and helping people develop. His multidisciplinary experience has enabled him to approach learning and personal development from a broad perspective, combining educational knowledge, therapeutic understanding, analytical thinking and adaptability.