I was eager to follow my interest in professional development and teacher’ professional learning

I started on the Education Doctorate at Sheffield University because I was eager to follow my interest in professional development and teacher’ professional learning.

As a headteacher and leader of learning being able to use my doctoral research to enhance my job role and develop my own knowledge was important for me. I chose the Sheffield EdD because of its established track record for offering high quality support to its students.

Throughout my studies I have been impressed by the support, encouragement and level of supervision provided on the course. The structure of the EdD allowed me to explore different themes in education and develop my thinking and ideas for my research. It also gave me the essential skills needed to undertake my research, such as critical thinking, analysis and academic writing.

The support I received from my tutors throughout my research journey was invaluable. It enabled me to build up the confidence and skills I needed to present my research to a variety of audiences including fellow students, colleagues and other educational leaders.

I have absolutely enjoyed my experience on the University of Sheffield EdD programme and would recommend it to other leaders and colleagues who are wishing to deepen and extend their interests, knowledge and practice.