The power of networking in UK education: Elevating careers & impacting learning

A well-connected education sector creates opportunities for development, encourages best practices, and ensures that knowledge is shared effectively.

Networking in education also improves learner outcomes. A government-commissioned 2024 review suggests a clear link between high-quality professional development and learner success.

Types of networking in education

There are many ways educators can engage in networking:

• Conferences provide a structured environment for professionals to exchange ideas, learn about the latest trends, and form valuable relationships with others in the industry.
• Mentoring offers guidance and personal growth, particularly for those newer to the field.
• Regional partnerships strengthen collaboration between schools, helping them pool resources and improve teaching methods.
• Subject-based learning networks create communities focused on specific disciplines where educators can discuss developments and challenges.
• Cross-organisation collaboration fosters joint initiatives that enhance curriculum planning, teacher training, and learner outcomes.
• Digital networking extends beyond geographical limitations, allowing professionals to connect through online forums, platforms, and social media groups.

The benefits of networking

There are numerous benefits to networking in education, both for the individual and for the institution. Staying informed about the latest developments, funding opportunities, and educational policies is vital in a rapidly evolving sector. Increased recognition can also open unexpected doors, leading to greater influence and career progression.

Educators often find that networking keeps them motivated and engaged, ensuring they remain excited about their work. It supports personal development, influencing wellbeing and overall achievement. Collaboration leads to fresh ideas and new ways of working, while knowledge-sharing helps teachers refine lesson strategies, save time, and improve learner engagement.

Enhancing the learner experience should be a priority, and the exchange of ideas should facilitate this. By incorporating new ideas into lessons, educators can find new ways of delivering key concepts to their learners.

Networking gives attendees a chance to learn beyond their immediate specialisms, and can offer valuable insight into managerial roles and leadership responsibilities. It also fosters a culture of guidance – those who gain valuable knowledge often go on to mentor others, becoming key connectors within the sector.

How to be a good networker

Being a strong networker requires intentional effort and strategic engagement. Attending industry events hosted by major organisations like ETF, AoC, AELP, HOLEX and UVAC is an effective way to connect with influential figures in education. However, smaller events should not be overlooked, as they often provide direct access to specific areas of expertise.

For those who feel nervous about networking, bringing a colleague to events can boost confidence and facilitate introductions. The ability to communicate clearly will develop through repeated networking activities, while active listening, empathy, and curiosity make interactions more effective.

Senior leaders who may be wavering when it comes to staff networking should recognise its long-term benefits, understanding that initial costs will likely be offset by reduced recruitment expenses as a result of lower rates of attrition and greater internal progression.

Making networking routine

To ensure networking becomes routine practice, it should be embedded into professional development frameworks. Senior leaders can set networking as a formal objective, encouraging staff to attend conferences or take part in cross-organisation initiatives. Personal growth plans can incorporate networking goals, providing a structured approach to tracking engagement.

Digital performance management solutions can provide an accurate record of networking participation, ensuring continuous professional development. They can also give educators a clear understanding of their objectives, while making it easy to give and receive real-time feedback.

Networking should be viewed as an integral part of the role rather than an optional extra. It should be normalised as an essential tool for success rather than treated as an occasional luxury. In fact, networking forms a key component of the ETF’s Professional Standards framework.

Shaping the future 

Ultimately, networking is about fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and building stronger professional relationships. It enhances careers, enriches learning experiences, and contributes to the overall improvement of education outcomes. Educators who commit to networking don’t just expand their own opportunities – they help shape the future of the sector itself.

---

If you would like to find out more about networking and career development, don’t miss our June 23 webinar, Leading with Influence: Building Connections, Elevating Careers and Creating Legacy, with Dr. Barbara Van der Eecken. Topics include building authentic networks, influencing with purpose, and leaving a lasting legacy.