Contemporary Developments in Coaching

Overview

Coaching is a truly multidisciplinary subject, drawing on insights from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and education to inform its practice.  Applied studies can inform both their direct use of coaching and the wider community too – insights from sports coaching, health coaching, financial coaching, and executive development are obvious examples.  The committed coach knows the importance of keeping ‘up to date’ through continuous professional development.  However, with so many fields to monitor, this can be a challenge – many coaches do not have access to the academic literature, let alone the time to scan such a broad range of topics.  This one-day event aims to help bridge this gap. 

Now in its seventh year, the course material is different every time.   

At the time of writing, four key areas will be explored: learning processes, peak experiences, motivation, and impact.  Should new themes emerge, we will adapt the programme accordingly.  As well as providing an overview of developments relevant to coaching in specific areas there will be opportunities for participants to work together exploring these and other topics throughout the day. 

Please note: this event will close to enrolments at 23:59 GMT on 11 February 2026. 

Programme details

9.45am
Registration at Rewley House Reception

10am
Introduction: Coaching as a learning process – insights from research in Androgogy 

11.15am
Tea/coffee break

11.45am
The psychological contract- understanding 'peak experience' and its role in coaching

1pm
Lunch break

2pm
Motivation – autonomy, mastery and purpose; updating our understanding of the work of Deci and Ryan 

3.15pm
Tea/coffee break

3.45pm
Coaching leaders – applying Behavioural economics to optimise impact 

Summary 

5pm
Course Disperses 

Fees

Description Costs
Event Fee (includes tea/coffee) £125.00
Baguette lunch £7.50
Hot lunch £21.25

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit or are a full-time student in the UK you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees.

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Graham Wilson

A PhD in animal behaviour, and initial career in organisation development followed by psychotherapy training, led Graham to practise as an executive confidant for 20+ years. He has taught counselling, psychology and photography at Oxford and elsewhere for a decade. Recently retired as Coordinator of HE Counselling Courses at Guildford College, his research interests include the use of imagery to provoke positive behavioural change within communities. Graham currently leads programmes of therapeutic photography within Oxfordshire. He has written more than ten textbooks.

Application

Please use the 'Book' button on this page. Alternatively, please contact us to obtain an application form.

Accommodation

If you wish to stay with us before and/or after the event, please contact our Residential Centre for availability and discounted rates.

Call +44 (0) 1865 270362 or email res-ctr@conted.ox.ac.uk

Our accommodation in Wellington Square has been rated as 4-Star Campus Accommodation under Visit England. All bedrooms are modern, comfortably furnished with tea/coffee making facilities, Freeview television, private bath/shower rooms and free WiFi. For more details see our accommodation information.