For the last 18 months I’ve been part of a tutor team on a Healthcare Leadership programme. It has stretched my coaching abilities and leadership abilities in many ways – as I am not an expert in healthcare – but rather my role is to facilitate the learning of NHS Leaders as they learn lots about themselves, teams and systems – through the medium of a well-stocked virtual campus, lots of assignments, action learning and residentials. It has required me to fully step into the role of coach – to truly facilitate the learning of others – in areas where I do not have prior knowledge. That is not always comfortable or easy – I’m used to knowing a subject area well, and it requires humility, and also vulnerability as a tutor. I have experienced the real joy of seeing participants flourish and get promoted, expand their learning and awareness. It has also had its fair share of challenges at times – things have not always been easy – and at times I have had to change my approach to how I’ve tackled something – after recognising my understanding of a situation was wrong and my approach to managing it was not working. In this time I have had support and leadership from other tutors on the programme, one in particular who has been brave alongside me and has been a constant ally. It’s made me realise the importance of support and someone believing in you – even when things are challenging for them too. That’s one of the many leadership lessons I’ve learned on this journey, and sometimes leadership lessons unfold in unlikely places – you just have to be open to the learning!