Benefiting from training and experience with Summer Projects

I’m a Digital Learning Project Manager at the University of Warwick, where I advise lecturers and teachers on the digital products that can enhance their teaching and learning.

Before this role, I spent seven years teaching through Teach First, finishing as an assistant principal in Coventry. I loved teaching but saw an opportunity to explore digital learning which has always been a passion of mine. Last year, I worked on an educational initiative developing an app to teach people about therapy, combining mental health and education.

I moved to the University of Warwick because I missed the school environment. While it's not quite the same, it still offers a sense of teamwork that I value. This is only my second year out of teaching, and adjusting to a different world has been a challenge. There are so many things I miss about teaching – the community spirit, the pace, and that feeling of accomplishment at the end of each day.

Choosing a summer project based on my interests

I wanted to explore how technology makes a positive impact in education.

I applied for a summer project because I wanted to explore how technology interacts with teaching and learning, and how it makes a positive impact in education. I chose to apply for We Are In Beta, an online platform that connects thousands of teachers and school leaders, offering resources, sharing expertise and encouraging collaboration.

I was already familiar with We Are In Beta from my time as Head of English. I used their resources to confirm ideas and improve the English curriculum during a redesign. I’d been a fan of the platform for years and wanted to see what it was like to contribute behind the scenes.

Benefiting from training as well as the experience

We started with a full day of training before diving into our roles as school practice and policy researchers. Each of us focused on specific areas of interest. For me, this included mobile phone policies and recruitment and retention – issues that I feel strongly about after leaving teaching.

Over the course of the project, I researched and wrote four articles, including one on the benefits teachers look for in job offers. I learned to use tools like Airtable and the backend of the We Are In Beta website, I received training on structuring articles for busy teachers and incorporating search engine optimisation (SEO) techniques.

What I have taken from the project

I had the chance to continue working with We Are In Beta after the project, contributing additional articles. I also connected with a diverse group of people during the internship, including headteachers and early career teachers, each bringing unique perspectives.

The project taught me so much. I developed new skills, such as using Airtable, writing for a professional audience, and understanding SEO. I also gained insight into how a small startup like We Are In Beta operates and the impact it can have on education.

Step outside your comfort zone

The team was incredibly supportive and I’m really proud of the work I achieved. It’s a fantastic way to step outside your comfort zone and gain valuable experience without committing to a long-term career change. Each project offers something different, whether it’s learning new skills, building relationships, or exploring a new area of interest.

If you’re considering applying, don’t hesitate.

For me, it was an opportunity to combine my passion for education and technology, while also learning about research and policy. If you’re considering applying, don’t hesitate. Apply for a couple of projects if you can, as each one can offer a unique experience that enriches your career and personal growth.

Interested in taking part in Summer Projects?

Find out more and apply 

Applications close on 31 March.