For teaching and support staff, Richard’s presentations offer a unique lens on supporting students who have faced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). His sessions are designed to resonate with educators, providing both empathy and practical strategies for creating a trauma-informed, supportive classroom environment.
Richard draws on his own powerful life story to help staff understand how to nurture resilience, hope and a sense of belonging in children who need it most. This is not just about understanding ACEs, it is about empowering staff to make a lasting difference in their school community.
“I’ve been a Head and CEO for 23 years, and have heard thousands of speakers. Today, you were one of the best ever presentations I’ve had the honour to hear…To hear your bravery and gratitude to your teachers was truly inspirational.”
Adrian Rogers
CEO, Chiltern Learning Trust
"Richard attended the leadership conference in January and stunned educational leaders with his inspirational and motivational message to such an extent that in June we decided to hold a town-wide event. Richard spoke to over 900 educationalists across Hartlepool schools, and once again, the message and inspiration he gave from his life story touched many in the room. Richard is so relevant to staff in education. His story helps you understand why sometimes people do things that you really don’t understand, and how you can help young people who had similar challenges and trauma in their life be successful."
Mark Tilling
Headteacher, High Tunstall College
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For Learners
Richard’s sessions focus on resilience, positive behaviour and building a determined outlook for the future. Having spoken to over a quarter of a million young people, Richard brings a wealth of experience in inspiring students to see challenges as stepping stones.
He shares real-life stories that help young people understand that setbacks can become comebacks and that they have the strength to keep moving forward. Richard’s resilience workshops empower learners to believe in their own potential, no matter what their journey looks like.
“I am now in my 30th year working in comprehensive schools and I felt that I had seen and heard virtually everything… I was wrong. Without doubt your presentation has been the most moving and powerful experience that I have had in school.”
Stephen Ball
Head Teacher
"Every child in the UK should get to hear the Richard McCann presentation."
Gervaise Phinn
Ex-School Inspector, author and speaker
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The iCan Academy Online Programme
Want to bring resilience and inspiration into your school at the click of a button? The iCan in Education online programme gives you ready-made, pre-recorded keynotes for both staff and students, suitable for primary, secondary and post-16 settings.
These short, engaging videos help learners build confidence and resilience, and they support teachers with practical, easy-to-use strategies. Ideal for assemblies, wellbeing sessions, behaviour interventions and staff CPD, the content is flexible enough to fit into any timetable.
If you’d like to explore how your school or trust can use these resources, get in touch and we’ll guide you through the options.
