How does it feel to be back?

It's so great to be back, I loved being on the last series of the show. The talent on this show is incredible and it blew my mind again this time round. I was really proud to be invited back.

What do you look for in a voice?

I think uniqueness and individuality is the most important thing. When you switch on the radio, you want to be able to recognise your favourite artists or an artist immediately and I think having a recognisable voice is very important.

What do you love the most about the show?

The diversity of talent at such a young age is phenomenal and it’s amazing that at such a young age, they can already pinpoint the different genres and styles of music that their voices sit with better. Just seeing all the talent is incredible.

Tell us about your team this year

My team was incredibly strong this year and all of my team have a diverse range of talent. It was quite overwhelming at times and quite emotional. I have kids the same age as some of the talent that stood on stage and to see these kids with such confidence and such ability at that age is mesmerising.

I have a young lad from Manchester, who was quite shy about his voice at first but when he got to perform, he really opened up and he just had this awesome cool tone in his voice which was fantastic. I have a great singer who is just the ultimate Popstar and then my Folk singer is just incredible, her connection with the vocals is very special.

What advice do you give them?

I give constructive criticism to help them be better and that is the most important thing as a coach to give them confidence and all the right tools. That is our duty as coaches, I make sure they all get what they need.

Do the kids surprise you every year?

They always surprise me and the one thing about being on the show wherever I have done it in the world is that when I sit there and imagine what I think that person looks like, I am always surprised. When you turn your chair, they never look how they sound. It is incredible. If people at home are watching, playing along and pretending to be coaches, please close your eyes and turn your back from the screen and imagine what you think they will look like. It really is truly brilliant and so much fun.

Which coach is the most competitive?

Competitive haha. Will has been there the longest and he has probably done more of the show than I have around the world so he has a lot of experience. Danny loves having a great time and so does Pixie. I don't feel a huge competitiveness on the kids version!

I am sure Pixie would like to keep her reign going but at the same time Pixie is very happy for other people to have their moment as well. She is very generous like that.

What is the hardest thing for you?

I mean I am always honest but sometimes it is hard as these kids are just starting out on their journeys so you want to make sure, you keep the dream alive and give them the right criticism in the most positive way.

Who has inspired you over the years in the music industry?

Definitely George Michael! He is a musical hero for me.

What do you think the kids learn in this process?

They learn how to perform on a stage and it gives them the confidence to be brave. They all have incredible coaches so that makes them stronger as well and what an opportunity this is. It is a great crash course in performance.