About us

Communication is a skill you can see, understand, and grow.

NextTier was created to give advanced English speakers something a test score never could — a real understanding of how they communicate, and a practical way to get better.

Our story

Why we built the CPD

Plenty of people reach a high level of English and then feel stuck. Their grammar is good. Their vocabulary is wide. Yet they still wonder why some conversations feel effortless and others don't.

Standard language exams don't answer that question. They measure knowledge, not communication. So we built the Communication Performance Diagnostic — an assessment that looks at how you actually come across, and turns that into clear, encouraging guidance you can use.

We're a small team with a simple belief: when people understand their own communication, they improve faster and speak with more confidence.

The founders

NextTier was founded by Phil and Leigh, who deliver every assessment personally as consultants. Their focus is practical, human, and grounded in years of working with advanced English speakers.

"We wanted to build the tool we always wished existed — one that tells you not just where you are, but how to move forward."
What we believe

The principles behind every assessment

Insight over labels

A number can't capture how you communicate. We explain the why behind your strengths and habits.

Development, not judgement

The CPD is a professional development tool. Every report is designed to encourage and guide, never to grade you.

Grounded in research

Our approach draws on established language-learning theory, so the guidance you receive is sound as well as practical.

Warm and accessible

Clear, jargon-free language throughout — because good feedback should be easy to understand.

Real conversations

We assess how you handle genuine, unscripted situations, not memorised answers.

Made for professionals

Built for people at career turning points who want clarity, confidence and a way forward.

Want to know how you communicate?

Take the assessment and get a clear, personal read on your communication strengths.

Now booking for September

Book your assessment