During my EdD, I was fortunate to engage with a wide range of learned societies and associations. I was encouraged by my mentor at the University I worked at to join the British Education Research Association (BERA) and later by my supervisor to join the British Educational Leadership, Management and Administration Society (BELMAS).
I started to attend the BERA Early Careers Research Special Interest Group (SIG) events, where I was encouraged to discuss my methodology, my literature review, and I became part of a community of supportive colleagues, who urged each other on and supported each other. I served as a SIG convenor for four years, which was not only a privilege, but a wonderful opportunity to engage with colleagues within my field.
Throughout the pandemic, we were able to share best practice, and engage with colleagues across England, regarding Teacher Education via podcasts as well as webinars, and of course the first conference after lockdown at the University of Liverpool. In BELMAS I took on the role of Research Interest Group (RIG) convenor, a role I still support, and I am passionate about the work the RIG does. I have also stood as a BELMAS Trustee Board member, and I am currently serving BELMAS as the chair for the sub-committee focusing on Awards, Bursaries and Grants. Throughout this time, all my involvement in these societies also contributed to my drive to complete my doctorate, and colleagues offered supportive collaborative guidance to enable me to move my work forward, alongside the guidance my supervisor provided.
I also became a member of the International Professional Development Association (IPDA), where I served as Conference lead for three years, Vice Chair, and IPDA England Chair. I am currently Chair of the International Committee (IC) too.
These societies were a huge additional support to me during my doctoral studies, and they provided me with mentorship and collaborative learning communities in a safe learning space in which I could develop, grow and flourish.
I strongly recommend to anyone who has the opportunity to join an association, or become part of it, grasp it with both hands. You don't just learn about your field - it is an apprenticeship to develop as a researcher, academic, and future postdoctoral researcher, and alongside your supervision support and pave the way for a bright future in the work of research, academia or pracademia. The relationships you develop through these engagements are life-long friendships, mentorships, and colleagues and they make a true difference on your journey.