Nick Telford, co-founder of Elevo, attributes much of his personal and professional ethos to his formative years at John Scottus. The unique educational philosophy of the school, which emphasised physical activity, mindfulness, and a culture of questioning, has left an indelible mark on how he approaches leadership and the mission of his company.

A Foundation in Physical Activity and Play

At John Scottus, physical activity wasn’t just a part of the curriculum—it was a way of life. Days were filled with outdoor sports, camping trips, and hikes, embedding a deep appreciation for movement and the outdoors. This emphasis on physical well-being shaped Nick’s belief in the transformative power of play and activity, a cornerstone of Elevo’s mission. ‘The benefits of outdoor play and physical activity are foundational to Elevo,’ he explains. The company’s programmes are designed to instil the same love for movement and its positive impact on mental and physical health that Nick experienced during his school years.

Mindfulness as a Daily Practice

Another hallmark of John Scottus was its focus on mindfulness. Every activity, whether a class, meal, or sports session, began and ended with a pause. This practice of consciously falling still became a lifelong habit for Nick. ‘It’s a healthy thing to do,’ he reflects, ‘and something I still carry with me.’ At Elevo, mindfulness is integrated into the curriculum, helping students develop tools to manage stress and build emotional resilience—skills Nick himself relies on as a leader.

A Culture of Possibility and Confidence

John Scottus instilled in its students a belief that anything is possible. Nick recalls the school’s message of empowerment: ‘If you want to do something, do it. You should be making a difference in this world, and you have the ability to do it.’ This philosophy fostered an inner confidence that has been instrumental in his journey. It’s a mindset he brings to Elevo, encouraging his team to think big, embrace challenges, and innovate.

Embracing Diversity and Questioning

Exposure to diverse philosophies, particularly Eastern thought, was another unique aspect of Nick’s education. This openness to different perspectives taught him the value of diversity—not just in backgrounds but in ideas. ‘No organisation that achieves success at scale can do so without disagreement and healthy internal conflict,’ he notes. At John Scottus, students were encouraged to question everything, including themselves. This culture of introspection and self-reflection has been a powerful tool for Nick, especially as a leader. ‘When you’re frustrated with someone, it’s typically something you need to work on internally,’ he explains. This philosophy of self- awareness and emotional control is something he hopes to pass on to the students Elevo serves.

The Heart of Elevo: Culture and Service

For Nick, culture is the beating heart of both John Scottus and Elevo. At its core is a commitment to service—putting others first and striving to make a positive impact. ‘If everyone is there for the right reasons, serving others is at the core of everything,’ he says. This ethos drives Elevo’s mission to do things differently, to challenge norms, and to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

A Legacy of Leadership

Nick’s journey from John Scottus to Elevo is a testament to the enduring impact of a holistic education. The lessons he learned—about the importance of play, mindfulness, diversity, and service—continue to shape his leadership and the vision of his company. Through Elevo, he aims to give students the same tools and opportunities that shaped his own path, so that the next generation is equipped to lead with confidence, authenticity, and integrity.