WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT
At Shape This Space, we work with independent schools committed to developing not only academically excellent students, but grounded, articulate and emotionally intelligent young men.
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Our focus is simple:
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To help boys build the internal architecture required for leadership — strength of character, clarity of identity, emotional fluency and respect for others.
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We believe that confident, resilient young men are not produced by pressure alone, but by a healthy understanding of who they are and what they contribute to the world around them.
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In a rapidly changing cultural landscape, boys need more than information. They need:
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​Language for their emotions
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Models of strength rooted in integrity
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A belief in their capacity to contribute meaningfully
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Tools to navigate influence, competition and identity
When boys understand themselves well, they relate to others well.
When they feel anchored, they lead with steadiness.
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Independent schools rightly aim to cultivate future leaders — young men who are capable, principled and composed under pressure.
Our work complements that mission.
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We help boys see that excellence and emotional intelligence are not opposites — they are partners.
Meet Nathan
Nathan is a speaker and facilitator specialising in the development of boys and young men within high-performing school environments.
For over a decade, he has delivered assemblies and workshops in some of the UK’s most respected independent schools, including Fettes College, Marlborough College, North London Collegiate, Francis Holland, Uppingham and the British School of Bucharest.
Alongside his work in education, Nathan is an established professional actor with credits across television, film and theatre, including BBC dramas and a long-standing role on Channel 4. This background gives him a rare ability to hold attention, communicate nuance and make complex conversations accessible and engaging.
His sessions combine presence, warmth and thoughtful challenge — helping boys develop emotional fluency, internal discipline and leadership grounded in responsibility.
Staff consistently describe his approach as balanced, relatable and deeply resonant across year groups.
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Nathan does not aim to “fix” boys.
He challenges them to rise.
THE JOURNEY ON WORKING WITH US
Depending on size, workshops take place either as an assembly in an auditorium, or in a classroom setting with smaller groups. We will send specific requirements once you have made the booking. Each talk incorporates open discussion, Q&A's, engaging activities, a power point and informative video content meaning that however they assimilate information our teachings are absorbed and digested.
For younger children we use a more narrative based approach, utilising storytelling and performance to deliver uplifting and inspiring workshops, well suited to Prep Schools. .
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For pre and early teens we combine narrative storytelling and performance with real life experience and examples, catering to this transitional period in young men's lives.
For teenagers and sixth form students we utilise performance alongside real life experience and examples while framing the assembly within a social and political backdrop, giving room for discussion, debate and reflection.
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Aftercare is essential for any workshop we deliver.
