Coach Sam - Sense Sensory

Empowering pupils through lived experience, motivation and
meaningful connection

At Sense Sensory Ltd, we understand the importance of helping schools create inclusive environments where every child feels seen, supported and valued. That’s why we are proud to offer inspiring school sessions with Sam Blackman, also known as Coach Sam — a neurodiversity advocate, motivational speaker and qualified sports coach who brings a powerful message of resilience, self-belief and inclusion to pupils of all ages.

Drawing on his own lived experience of ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia, Coach Sam delivers engaging sessions that help young people better understand themselves, build confidence and recognise that their differences do not limit their potential.

A Powerful Voice for Neurodivergent Young People

Sam’s journey has been shaped by personal challenges during education, including struggles with mental health and later diagnoses of ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia. These experiences now form the foundation of his work in schools, where he speaks openly and honestly with pupils in a
way that is relatable, authentic and inspiring.

His message is simple but powerful: young people can overcome challenges, develop confidence and succeed with the right understanding and support.

Because Sam speaks from genuine experience, he is particularly effective in connecting with pupils who may feel misunderstood, disengaged or overwhelmed in traditional school settings.

Real School Experience, Real Impact

As a former Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Sam has hands-on experience supporting children and young people within school environments, especially those with Alternative Educational Needs. He has worked closely with pupils experiencing emotional regulation difficulties, low
confidence and developmental immaturity, helping them develop practical strategies to manage challenges and thrive.

This background means schools benefit not only from an inspirational speaker, but from someone who truly understands the realities of the classroom and the pressures facing pupils and staff alike.

What Coach Sam Offers Schools

Areas covered: East of England only (Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk & Cambridge)

Assemblies

Dynamic whole-school or key-stage assemblies introducing themes such as:

Neurodiversity awareness
Inclusion and empathy
Resilience and confidence
Self-belief and personal growth
Understanding emotions and challenges

Interactive Workshops

Class-based or small-group sessions that encourage discussion, reflection and participation:

Understand different ways of thinking and learning
Develop emotional awareness
Explore practical coping strategies
Build resilience and confidence
Feel more positive about themselves and others

Poetry & Creative Writing Sessions

Creative workshops inspired by Sam’s 150-poem project celebrating Essex County Cricket Club:

Overcoming obstacles
Expressing emotions
Asking for help
Celebrating individuality
Finding their own voice

Sports-Based Sessions

Using sport and movement to inspire engagement and personal development:

Teamwork
Communication
Positive mindset
Perseverance
Confidence building

More Information

Message That Resonates with Staff

When working with schools, Coach Sam doesn’t just inspire pupils — he also delivers a meaningful message to teachers and support staff:

The small things you do matter more than you think
Your patience can change a child’s direction
Your belief can become a child’s confidence
Sam highlights how a single positive relationship in school can be the turning point for a young person facing difficulties with learning, behavior or emotional wellbeing

Why Schools Choose Coach Sam

Lived experience of neurodiversity
Classroom-based SEN support experience
High pupil engagement
Authentic motivational speaking
Creative and sporting approaches to learning
A positive message pupils remember

Supporting Inclusion, Wellbeing & Pupil Voice

Coach Sam’s work aligns strongly with school priorities around inclusion, pupil wellbeing, emotional development, neurodiversity awareness, positive role models, personal development and mental health conversations.

By sharing his story openly, Sam helps pupils understand that asking for support is a strength and that challenges can be managed with the right tools, encouragement and mindset.

Media & Wider Advocacy

Alongside his school-based work, Sam has spoken on platforms including BBC Radio and Phoenix Radio, helping raise awareness of the everyday realities faced by neurodivergent young people in education and beyond. In May 2026, Coach Sam successfully published 150 poems to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Essex County Cricket Club.

Safeguarding

Coach Sam is enhanced DBS checked and holds training TQUK certificate in Behavior that Challenges in Children (RGF) and Level 2 Safeguarding Children.

“Sam has been coaching our whole school to play cricket and his patience and enthusiasm make his sessions absolutely fantastic. Sam makes every activity fully inclusive; every child walks away feeling like they aced the session”.

Sophie Denyer - Headteacher, Roach Vale Primary School

Book Coach Sam Through Sense Sensory Ltd

If your school is looking for an engaging and meaningful way to promote neurodiversity awareness, inclusion, resilience and wellbeing, Coach Sam offers a powerful experience that pupils will connect with and remember.

Whether you are planning an assembly, themed awareness day, wellbeing event or targeted workshop programs, Sense Sensory Ltd can help bring an inspiring session into your school.

Get in touch today to discuss availability and booking.
For multiple day bookings, please contact us instead of purchasing directly via the website.

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