Lecturer in Social Care and Evidence Advocate for the EEF
I graduated in 2021 after completing my ungraduated degree in Education Studies (awarded 2:1) and then completed my PGCE with QTS (awarded merit) in 2022.
Since graduating, I have worked in a secondary school working with the attendance and safeguarding team in ensuring children were able to access education and feel safe within school.
I am now going into my third year of teaching at Middlesbrough College, teaching on the Level 3 Year 2 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care. The modules I have taught are, empowerment, nutrition, technology, protection of children, young people and adults and personal and professional development.
I am also an Evidence Advocate for the Education Endowment Foundation. I aim to help support staff to apply educational research to improving teaching, learning and learner achievement throughout the sector.
Key research interests
I am interested in learner engagement and motivation and how that is influenced through their attendance. In my previous roles, attendance has been at the forefront of my professional role and it is becoming increasingly important that learners are in education to receive the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviour to progress onto their next steps.
I am also interested in equality, diversity and inclusion in education to make sure all learners are receiving the support they need to succeed.
Current research projects
For the next academic year, I am working on initiatives to support learners to attend FE and make sure they feel included and safe within college so they want to attend, this will be supported by being an Evidence Advocate for the EEF.
Areas of specialism
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, it is important to highlight my pastoral experience and tutor role, demonstrating your contribution to the wider learner journey. This includes providing ongoing pastoral support, monitoring learner wellbeing, attendance, progress and engagement, and working closely with safeguarding procedures to ensure learners are safe and supported. My experience in identifying and responding to safeguarding concerns, making appropriate referrals, and promoting a culture of inclusion aligns with the expectations of the new inspection framework.
Furthermore, my ability to implement adaptive assessment methods ensures that learners with differing needs, abilities and backgrounds can access learning and demonstrate achievement effectively. My involvement in curriculum planning reflects a commitment to creating inclusive, ambitious and relevant learning experiences that meet both learner and industry needs. Regular engagement with employers and external stakeholders helps to enrich the curriculum, provide meaningful industry links, and support learners in developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for progression into employment or further study.
Together, these responsibilities demonstrate a holistic approach to supporting learner success, inclusion and positive outcomes.
Email: e.olsen@mbro.ac.uk