Overview
Coaching in systems is an approach that works with clients not in isolation but as part of a larger ecosystem, such as the teams, organisations, or communities where clients live, work, play and the different roles they enact in those contexts.
It emphasises understanding system dynamics, relationships, and patterns to co-create awareness, leading to more impactful coaching outcomes. By considering the broader context and interactions, the coaching conversation can explore the (sometimes unconscious) forces that are influencing your clients situation.
Developing a systems perspective will equip you to accompany your clients as they explore the bigger picture and make sense of how various system elements interact. This holistic perspective is crucial for identifying and naming the root causes of challenges, developing solutions and anticipating consequences of action. In our experience, naming and co-creating awareness of the systemic forces change a client's perspective, and it is the awareness that is the light bulb moment rather than any specific solution or action plan.
This course is not specifically for team or group coaching but developing a systems perspective is essential for coaches working with teams or groups because it allows coaches to understand the intricate web of relationships, dynamics, and influences within a team or group.​ To participate in this course it is essential you have completed other coaching training and are working with clients.
Course structure
Before enrolling in Coaching in Systems training, it's essential to have some prior coaching experience, either with us or another provider. We start with a 30-minute consultation to determine if the course is the right fit for you. If it's a match, we will proceed with your enrollment.
The course is designed to be engaging and manageable, with workshops running 3 hours per week over 4 weeks. We offer both virtual and in-person options in Melbourne, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for you. As well as class time there is some additional optional reading for those who want to delve deeper.
By the end of the training, you'll be fluent in bringing a systems lens to your coaching practice.
A total of 12 hours coach development, delivered in four 3 hour workshops
1
Introduction to coaching in systems
Your learning journey begins with an overview of systemic coaching, where participants will explore the definition, principles, and importance of this approach. We delve into the fundamentals of systems thinking, highlighting key concepts and models, such as feedback loops and interdependencies. Additionally, participants will gain insight into coaching ethics, power dynamics and boundaries, exploring how these ideas influence the coaching contract and the work that is done in the coaching container.
2
Role analysis, system level data collection, mapping and making meaning of systems data
Building on the foundational knowledge, in the second workshop we will explore methods for role analysis, system data collection and mapping techniques to co-create meaning for your clients in the context of the different systems they operate in. Through underpinning theory, practical exercises and case studies, we will learn to notice system level signals, explore how this influences role and behaviours, and how to include in the coaching conversation. We will explore different techniques to transform abstract data into tangible information that can be worked with in the coaching conversation to identify systemic patterns and dynamics that can bring new insights. We will practice different techniques, receive feedback from our peers and explore how you can be integrate systems thinking into your coaching practice.
3
Co-designing actions
We will focus on developing the skills to turn systems thinking insights into practical actions. By learning techniques for designing and implementing interventions that lead to positive system change, you will enhance your ability to co-create meaningful change for your clients. You will discover how to name potential turnings points, work with resistance to change, and design interventions with clients that they are confident in. By the end of this workshop you will be able to partner with your clients as they explore the complexities of system dynamics, fostering positive outcomes in the short, medium and long term.
4
Implementing actions and maintaining impact
You will explore methods for identifying capacity for change with your clients and accountability for those clients that ask for it (not all of your clients will need accountability from you). By mastering these techniques, you will partner with your clients to take ownership of changes and ongoing self-reflection and learning so clients can self-coach and adjust as needed. We will focus on keeping power dynamics in check, maintaining partnership to the very end of the coaching conversation - setting your clients up for longer term success.
Coaching in systems training is for those who:
-
Are experienced coaching practitioners seeking to develop their practice.
-
Value collaboration and learning from diverse perspectives.
-
Already coach clients.
-
Want to enhance core coaching competencies and develop as coaches.
-
Seeking personal and professional growth through experiential learning and learning from peers.
-
Are interested in reflecting on their contribution to coaching dynamics.
-
Comfortable with some light structure and are open to working emergently.
Participate in Coaching in Systems
​​
Register your interest today, and we'll get in touch to schedule a conversation to help determine if the course is the right fit for you.
Book in-house Coaching in Systems
Costs, inclusions and scholarships:
-
Action Learning costs $1595 AUD.
-
You can pay in full or in up to three instalments. To confirm your place, you will need to pay a deposit or pay in full if you prefer
-
We offer one scholarship per course that provides a 50% discount. There are no complicated criteria. All you have to do is signal that you need a scholarship in the expression of interest form.
​​​​
You will get:
-
A 30-minute introductory conversation with Kirsty to explore if Coaching in Systems is right for you.
-
An onboarding pack that introduces the concepts underpinning systems thinking and an optional resources list for those who want to delve deeper.
-
4 x 3-hour virtual Coaching in Systems training workshops.
-
10% off any other Simply Coaching services.
-
A certificate of participation that is twelve hours coach specific study for accreditation purposes.