Additional Information for Schools in Europe
James Nottingham is a prominent educational innovator and author whose work has profoundly influenced pedagogical practices across Europe.
Described by the Swedish Teaching Union (Skolvärlden) as “one of the most talked-about names in school development”, his impact is particularly visible in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, where his strategies for fostering challenge and a growth mindset have been integrated into national educational dialogues. In the Netherlands and across the broader region, Nottingham is recognised for bridging the gap between academic research and classroom reality, providing educators with practical frameworks for dialogue, feedback and metacognition that move students from surface-level knowledge to deep and transferable learning.
Nordic Countries
International Insight, Nordic Context James has spent years collaborating with schools and municipalities across Scandinavia, bridging the gap between world-class pedagogical research and the unique cultural strengths of Nordic education. He understands the high value placed on student autonomy and wellbeing, helping schools maintain these core values while strengthening student learning.
“James understands that in Scandinavia, we don’t just teach subjects; we develop citizens. His ability to show how high-level pedagogy supports both student wellbeing and academic success is why his work is so highly valued.” (Mads Danielsson, Stockholm Stad)
The extent of James’s work in the Nordic countries includes:
- Keynotes & hela dagsseminarier för 33 kommuner i Danmark
- Grundtoner och heldagsseminarier för 31 kommuner i Norge
- Keynotes & hela dagsseminarier för 48 kommuner i Sverige
Netherlands
James Nottingham’s work in the Netherlands is connected to a long-standing partnership with the educational publisher Bazalt and a deep integration of his methodologies into the Dutch school system.
He is also a regular collaborator with Platform Mindset, an organisation dedicated to growth mindset and pedagogical development. He also works frequently with international schools, including recording demonstration lessons for use in training videos by the International Baccalaureate and within his own library, PD On Demand.
Books
James has written 12 books. Many of these have been translated into Danish, Dutch, Norwegian and Swedish.
Professional Learning Options
Ways in which James works with pre-schools, schools, gymnasiums and municipalities include:
Planning Days
James specialises in creating professional learning experiences that build on your context. Rather than offering pre-set programmes, he collaborates with rektors and leadership teams to understand your strategic goals. Then he designs a custom full- or half-day session—suitable for ALL staff—that inspires dialogue, challenges existing practice, and aligns with your vision for student agency and growth.
Keynotes & Conferences
Having keynoted so many conferences across the Nordic world, James understands more than most what Scandinavian audiences value. Delegates appreciate his wit, wisdom and real-world credibility he brings to the stage. If your event requires a speaker who can bridge the gap between pedagogical theory and classroom reality with energy and authenticity, then James is a perfect choice for you.
Demonstration Lessons
The best way to understand pedagogical improvements is to see them in action. That is why James offers demonstration lessons with any tudents willing to speak English with him. Give him any class, any age, and he will model high-impact questioning, checks for understanding, inquiry-led learning, or retrieval practice. These live sessions allow your team to observe strategies in action and engage in a collaborative review of what works in your context.
Long-Term Partnership
One-off events with James are inspiring. However, to go deeper and drive systemic, sustainable improvement, James offers longer-term engagements. These include coaching, strategic webinars, and dedicated support for leadership teams. His focus is on successful implementation—ensuring that new initiatives become embedded in your school culture rather than just ‘added to the list.’
Online Coaching & Webinars
James is available throughout the year to support your staff via interactive webinars and individual coaching. These sessions are designed to be flexible, allowing for deep-dive discussions on pedagogy or leadership without the need for travel.
PD-OD: The Video Library
As of January 2026, his professional library features over 70 curated videos designed to catalyse staff development. This collection includes ‘fly-on-the-wall’ footage of James teaching, providing a rare opportunity to see strategies play out in real time.
In addition to this work directly with schools and municipalities, he has given keynote speeches at these events:
- Tillväxt tänkesätt konferensturer med Carol Dweck, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2019
- BETT-konferens varje år, 2014-2019 (keynotes)
- Skolriksdag, (2600 ledare), Stockholm, Sverige 2015 (keynote)
- Årliga konferenser för synlig inlärning
- Bergen Lärare (3000 anställda), Norge, 2016
- Utbildningsstyrelsen, Skolverket, sept 2018
INVITING JAMES
To invite James to work with your team, please complete this contact form.