Case Studies
Case Study: Starting a project, gaining a Certificate and getting ahead
Jenny, a key stage coordinator, set up a peer mentoring scheme for pupils. The scheme developed leadership skills in some pupils, and addressed the social skills and engagement of under-performing female pupils. She researched the ideas, wrote up the story of the scheme, evaluated it and gained an M-level Certificate in Special Educational Needs, worth 60 credits from an East Midlands University. The showcasing of these teaching/learning approaches contributed to Jenny’s gaining AST status.*
Head of sixth form
“The MSc has provided me with opportunities to research areas that are of interest and also closely linked the roles I have had at School. The course has benefitted me greatly on a professional level as it has enabled me to research and reflect key issues within the school. I have then been able to put many of my recommendations from assignments into practice. Furthermore, it has boosted my self-confidence and I now find myself in an enjoyable and stimulating job I would previously never imagined myself in.
The sense of achievement and pride once you have completed an essay is fantastic. Only the dissertation to go and it will all be over, although the research and analysis skills I now have will be in use for the rest of my career.”
NQT teacher
"Studying towards the masters has been fulfilling in a number of ways. Consciously reflecting on my teaching has led to changes in how I teach and approach both my first and second subjects. I was also drawn back to consider the individual student, rather than just group progress. In doing this research, I have presented to colleagues, receiving recognition from them, in relation to my work was personally very rewarding. From a school perspective I think it has enabled us to see the potential of positive change, which is being implemented in various ways. Finally it has been great to work with, and develop friendships across different subjects, and I have benefited from their findings and the motivating effects of their dedication."
Teacher in second year of teaching
“Studying for a Masters module is hard work but it allows you to reflect on your own practice, and gives you a lot of impetus to initiate improvements in your department. It means that those initiatives you would pursue as a matter of course (and perhaps consequently moan about the work load!) are serving a purpose for your own professional development as well as that of others and the students' needs. Another bonus was that the process of research is invaluable to the teaching of many subjects, particularly at A Level, and I know teaching several Media modules has been easier for me because of my knowledge of the process.”
Head of Inclusion
“The MSc in Education and Leadership has given me the chance to investigate issues that are directly related to my own practice and interests. It has empowered me to look in depth and make a real difference to my own practice and those of others. Unlike traditional INSET the masters programme is lead by you for you rather than being from the top down. It gives you a chance to influence leadership and have a voice. Often it involves working collaboratively with other people in your School and this allows discussion and a chance to bounce ideas off each other. Although the masters is hard work it is the best professional development I have ever undertaken and has given me a new enthusiasm for teaching.”
Primary school teacher
“The Masters module has helped me formalise what I would have been doing anyway – dedicating time to Action Research has meant that I have done things more thoroughly and rigorously. I have so enjoyed having this chance to study a subject which has so much interest for me. The information gained is invaluable to me. I have learned to be reflective in my everyday practice, observing the children closely. I now understand how to review what aspects of my practice are successful (in particular to do with improving concentration) and what strategies I can use to develop concentration further”