Kat Sykes
BUSINESS NOT AS USUAL
Stakeholder Engagement Workshops that Unlock Better Outcomes
Big change rarely happens with business-as-usual routines. To shift mind-sets, you need methods that feel different, spark curiosity, and make it safe to speak up.
My play-based workshops do exactly that, turning serious challenges into hands-on sessions where teams think, build, and decide together.
a spoonful of sugar…
… helps the big boss calm down and the project team find clarity when everything is practically IMperfect in EVERY way.
I don’t just talk theory — I bring a blend of frontline experience to the room.
From classrooms… to construction sites… to complex NHS systems… I’ve navigated human behaviour in high-stakes settings where outcomes matter.
My mix of behavioural insight, practical project delivery, and public sector empathy helps teams cut through chaos, build trust fast, and make real progress — even when the landscape is anything but simple.
Flagship Method: LEGO® Serious Play®
One of my most effective tools is a hands-on method that transforms how teams communicate, connect and solve problems. It’s not about building towers for fun; it’s about making ideas visible.
Other Play-Based Tools
I also craft bespoke exercises drawn from my education and change-management background. Same guiding principles, new vehicles — perfect if LEGO bricks aren’t the right fit for your culture.
Why Choose NOT Usual?
Known as “the Mary Poppins of Projects”, I bring a combination of calm candour and creative spark. I sweeten the medicine with humour and play — but never shy away from honest conversations when behaviour needs to shift.
My cross-sector experience gives me a wide-angle lens on your challenge, while I focus on the human element ensures change that actually sticks. The result? Momentum without drama, and progress that feels possible.
Workshops To Suit Your Needs
My workshops come in different doses depending on where you are in your project journey.
A Kick-Start session is perfect when you need to quickly align people, spark action and move things forward — ideal for early momentum or mid-project reset.
Or, if you’re ready for the full Pirate Package, this includes a workshop plus follow-ups to embed the changes we’ll implement in the initial session.
joyful. positive. playful.
“Kat is incredibly engaging and charismatic, she is so joyful and positive, injecting playfulness into everything she does. But is also committed herself to ongoing learning, practicing what she preaches!”
client testimonial
PRICES
let’s get going
Helping you get to whatever level you want.
If you’re ready to bring your people together and move a tricky project forward, I currently offer two high-impact options.
Whether you need a short, sharp reset or a full change journey with support along the way, both packages are designed to reduce friction, spark momentum, and create clarity.
Mutual Appreciation Society
Free
E-mail list – Tips for getting people to do things.
Monthly online call – My stories, based on your Q&A. Currently free to e-mail subscribers.
Grown Up Goggles Guidebook
£9
Key theory info, GOGGLES model, planning resources and project folder.
Come to My Events
£19–79 depending on theme
Plays Well with Others – In-person, ad-hoc, themed events.
Have Me at Your Events
Talk
Online from £199
In-person from £599
Workshop
In-person from £599
Installation
In-situ £599
Grown Up Goggles Training
Getting It In, Moving and Used – For the accidental project leader.
Online from £995
In-person from £1,295
Translating Your Code to Client Need – For the technical project team.
Online from £995
In-person from £1,295
Facilitated Stakeholder Engagement Workshops
Kickstart Workshop – 2–3 hours with key stakeholders.
In-person from £1,995
Pirate Package – Series of workshops for super momentum.
In-person from £3,995
Consultancy
Investment depends on your specific needs – contact for a quote.
