I was a pretty terrible student. Easily distracted, always full of questions, allergic to authority. So when I started teaching, I made a promise to be the kind of teacher I would have actually listened to, patient, curious, and always in your corner.
What you’ll find below is some of the nicest stuff anyone’s ever said about me. I didn’t ask for it, I definitely didn’t bribe anyone, and I’d feel weird saying any of it myself, but it’s here because it matters.
Design is great. But helping someone believe in their ideas? That’s the real work. This kind of feedback reminds me why I do what I do, and who I do it for.
"Since the first day I met Nathan, he has had a huge impact on me, both personally and professionally. We first crossed paths when he was my teacher at Shillington Education, and it was immediately clear how skilled and passionate he was about design. He didn’t just teach; he inspired. His energy, dedication, and love for the craft were contagious. He was the best kind of teacher: one who nurtures creative thinking not by giving easy answers, but by challenging you to find the best solution yourself.
Later on, he reintroduced me to Shillington in a new light, recognising a spark for teaching in me, and we’ve been working together ever since. Over the past few months, he’s been so much more than a colleague. He’s been a mentor, a role model, and a constant source of support. He’s someone you can always count on.
I’ve learned so much from him, not just about design, but about working with purpose, staying curious, and lifting others up along the way. And beyond all that, I’m proud to call him a friend."
Sonia Ravasi
"I was lucky enough to be taught Graphic Design by Nathan at Shillington, and ever since, he’s been my go to creative guru and mentor.

Nathan is truly one of a kind. A weird and wonderful force of nature that every creative needs in their orbit. He effortlessly reframes problems and untangles confusion, usually with an unexpected analogy that somehow just works.

He’s one of those rare creatives who’s not just brilliant at what he does, but incredibly generous with how he shares it. You'll leave every interaction with a new perspective, an improved sense of humour, and a reminder of why you love design in the first place."
Imogen Williams
"I think that traditionally, I’m supposed to leave the nice words to the end of our course. But life is too short (and too full of shit stuff) not to share praise when it’s warranted.
So, just wanted to say….
I’ve worked with a lot of designers over the past twenty years, and I can think of only one other person who approaches design challenges with a similar level of creativity and dog-headed determination.
I feel like I learn something or am challenged in some way every time you critique my (or anyone else’s) work. And thank my lucky stars that I’ve had the chance to hang out and learn from you these past few weeks.
You’re an awesome designer, and an amazing teacher. Thanks for helping me get over my little mid-life meltdown and get re-inspired about this thing we call design."
Cat Townsend