Last week, we gathered 24 Teachers who are currently being supported by SHINE through our Teacher-led innovation programme. In 2016, we added 19 individuals to our network of innovative and entrepreneurial Teachers who are tackling educational inequality in schools around England. We are also giving an additional 7 Teachers further support this year to help take their projects to the next level.
As well as the financial support these Teachers receive for their projects, we provide practical help to ensure that their projects are given every opportunity to succeed and grow. Last weeks’ gathering was one such opportunity, where the Teachers met together to share their experiences, ideas and challenges, as well as hear from experts about aspects of their projects such as business planning and legal advice. The day was a great opportunity for the Teachers to take time out of their busy school day to focus on their projects and get the support and advice they need to tackle some of the challenges they may be facing. It’s also an inspiring place to hear about all the incredible work that these Teachers are doing to help children and young people achieve more at school.
We asked our current winners what hints, tips and advice they would give someone who is considering applying to Let Teachers SHINE. Have a read of what they said…
- Give it a go!
- Allow plenty of time to do the application. You have nothing to lose!
- Be clear about what you want to achieve.
- It’s quite a simple process and you’ll get lots of supportive people behind you from SHINE
- Involve your school in your application to get early buy-in
- Worthwhile! Dreams come true!
- Talk about your idea with a colleague to sharpen it up.
- Your idea might lead to great things – try it!
We are grateful for the the support of our partners who have funded this programme. We would also like to extend our thanks to Bloomberg for hosting this gathering.
“What is great about SHINE is that they take a supportive, hands-on attitude, not simply handing over a wedge of cash and leaving us to it.”
Josh Wedderkopp, 2014 Let Teachers SHINE winner