Some PhD Researchers undertake teaching alongside their research and others would like to but do not have the opportunity. We want to share with you an opportunity to gain teaching experience as well as other ways you can develop your teaching skills.
The Brilliant Club: real-world teaching and impact
The Scholars Programme from The Brilliant Club is a national widening participation initiative that connects PhD researchers with learners in state schools across the UK. As a Brilliant Club tutor, you have the chance to design and deliver university-style tutorials to small groups of students aged 8–18, sharing your expertise and passion for research while helping students build the confidence and academic skills needed to progress towards competitive universities.
Becoming a tutor isn’t just about leading sessions: PGRs receive expert pedagogical training, gain sustained teaching experience, and hone research communication skills — all of which are invaluable for future academic or non-academic careers. Tutors also earn competitive pay for their placements (with travel expenses covered and additional pay available for course design), and join a nationwide community of researchers making a meaningful impact on university access.
For many tutors, this experience is both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful — offering a way to translate research expertise into classroom practice, engage with diverse learners, and articulate complex ideas to new audiences.
Whether you want to design your own course based on your research (typically for older pupils) or deliver pre-designed programmes for younger learners, The Brilliant Club provides the training and support to help you succeed.
For more information on the Brilliant Club, click here. Applications for the Scholars Programme placements will open for 2026/27 in May 2026.
Enhance your teaching skills with UEA’s online training
In addition to external teaching opportunities like The Brilliant Club, PGRs at the University of Kent can benefit from targeted online training sessions designed to build practical teaching and assessment skills as part of the UEA Online Training Series for PGRs.
Upcoming sessions include:
- Preparing & Delivering Seminars (17 March 2026, 7pm–9pm): Focuses on planning and facilitating engaging seminars, including strategies for interaction, student engagement, and discussion leadership — ideal for those new to seminar teaching. Book here.
- Preparing & Delivering Lectures (24 March 2026, 7pm–9pm): Offers a practical guide to structuring and delivering effective lectures, covering slide preparation, delivery style, and tips for maximising audience impact. Book here.
- Assessment, Feedback & Module Design (26 March 2026, 7pm–9pm): Helps participants navigate marking and feedback, learn about different assessment types, and understand the fundamentals of constructing intellectually engaging modules. Book here.
These sessions form part of UEA’s broader training series that spans key areas of academic practice — from research methods to pedagogical skills — and are a valuable complement to hands-on opportunities such as teaching with The Brilliant Club.
Why these opportunities matter
Teaching experience and formal training are increasingly recognised as essential components of a strong academic profile — whether you’re planning a career within higher education or beyond. Participating in programmes like The Brilliant Club and UEA’s online series enables PGRs not only to develop confidence in their teaching practice but also to demonstrate initiative, professional development, and public engagement in future Job Market or industry applications.
If you’re interested in broadening your skill set, making a real difference to learners, and connecting with training communities across the UK, these opportunities are well worth exploring.