By Ellis Carpenter, Programme Officer
Read on for the start of our series spotlighting schools and brilliant school coordinators who make the running of the programmes as impactful as possible. Our very own Ellis sits down with Alexa Holt, the More Able Student Co-Ordinator and History Teacher at King’s Academy Prospect to get her take on all things CoachBright. For the last 3 years, together we have been running our Peer to Peer programme where Year 12’s support Year 10’s.
How did you first hear about CoachBright and what we do?
Our Headteacher David Littlemore met CoachBright CEO Robin at a training event and was really impressed by the potential of the programme. Robin came into school with other CoachBright staff and launched the programme to our first cohort of Yr 12 and 10’s in Autumn 2019. I have co-ordinated the programme at school ever since.
What is a typical co-ordinator day like for you? Talk us through it.
Alongside my co-ordinator role I am also a history teacher. I fit in the organisation of CoachBright and other programmes with my teaching commitments. I keep things organised by sending a weekly update email to all staff and students involved so everyone is in the right place at the right time! Support staff help me in ensuring that everything is set up for CoachBright and the sessions can start on time, as soon as normal school lessons have finished. I really like catching up with the students and CoachBright programme officers - Shanon, Loui and Ellis- every week.
Prospect Year 12 example session resource for their English coaching
What has been your biggest win from coordinating so far?
When I arrive in the room after a busy teaching day to find that the coaches and coachees have already got themselves settled into pairs and are working together. I also love seeing the students at graduation when they reflect on how far they have progressed.
How has coordinating helped with your own professional development?
I have met lots of new people - both CoachBright staff and people at out local university. It has helped me develop my organisational skills, but mostly it has taught me not to underestimate what the students can do to help each other!
Why do you recommend others join CoachBright programmes?
CoachBright is a great benefit to both the coaches and coachees. I have had positive feedback from every student involved in the programme so far. I really like the fact it is so personal and allows the coachee to steer the topics and pace so they really feel the benefits.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’m really proud of all our students who have taken part in CoachBright. They have all surpassed my initial expectations of what could be achieved.
In 2019 all our pairs worked successfully through the 7 weeks, making up any sessions missed during registrations and after school. In 2020 the pairs managed the additional challenge of online mentoring (due to Covid bubbles which meant that pairs couldn’t meet live). In 2021 we had our first set of coachees who became coaches. Wow! :-)
It is so lovely to see the potential teachers of the future delivering their first lessons!