BIOGRAPHY

Phil had a significant ‘aha’ moment during actor and practitioner training at the Rose Bruford College, in 1984, when he first realised how the creative power of drama can transform the way people view themselves and the world they inhabit.

This led him to embark on a career in acting, directing, writing, and teaching. He has written and directed plays for the SNAP Theatre Company, trained actors at The Italia Conti Academy and lectured in theatre and drama at Goldsmiths University.
As Head of Department, Phil taught drama for over 10 years, in a range of mainstream secondary schools. He later became the Director of Drama at the Brit School for Performing Arts. In addition, he ran workshops and courses for people with disabilities and difficulties, young offenders, and gang members.

He founded The Complete Works Charity in 1999, which transformed from an Alternative Provision into an Independent School in 2013. During its 25 years of operation, The Complete Works has enabled thousands of young people to successfully reengage with education. Phil continued as the Artistic Director, CEO and Headteacher until 2016, when he then moved into a more consultative role.

Alongside his love of drama, Phil’s other passion is yoga and meditation, which he has practised since 1971 and has studied in the UK and in India. He spent 2 years living in an Ashram and later became qualified to teach through the British Wheel of Yoga. Phil continues to deliver training, workshops, and consultation at The Complete Works, and to other companies, provisions, and schools.
In June 2023 Phil was presented with The Pearson Nation Teaching Award for Lifetime Achievement.