Mike taught languages in secondary schools for 10 years before becoming a teacher adviser for a local authority in north Wales. From 1988 to 2008 he held a school improvement role in Solihull, initially with responsibilities for languages, personal and social development, and guidance and mentoring; then, as a senior adviser he led developments in secondary strategy and in workforce reform, CPD, leadership and management. He offered direct leadership and pastoral support to primary, secondary and special schools. He is a trained OFSTED inspector, School Improvement Partner and Investors in People adviser.