ABSTRACT
Coaching is non-directive, non-judgemental, action-oriented and solution-focused. Coaching focuses on the present and future, rather than the past. Coaching is based primarily on questioning and 'reflecting' rather than 'telling'. A teacher can take a 'coaching approach' in any interaction with a student. Teachers can also conduct formal coaching sessions as part of a coaching programme. Coaching helps students improve performance or achieve personal development goals. Behavioural coaching involves setting goals, creating action-plans and monitoring progress. Behavioural coaching is most often associated with the GROW model. Cognitive-behavioural coaching (CBC) addresses an additional dimension – the coachee's thinking. A student's beliefs might be a major obstacle to goal attainment. CBC addresses such beliefs and enables students to overcome emotional obstacles. Coaching and mentoring differ from each other in terms of approach, techniques and underlying philosophy. Coaching is also sometimes confused with counselling or psychotherapy.
