My name is Taha Tariq. I am a year 13 student studying Geography, Economics and Politics. This summer, I was given an invaluable opportunity to have a research placement at the Edge Foundation, facilitated by the Nuffield Foundation.
Before August 2023, the thought of conducting a large-scale research project was nothing short of daunting. Armed with determination and an ever-burning curiosity, I plunged into the deep waters of research, embarking on a mission to dissect and understand the complex world of T-Levels, an educational pathway that has been reshaping the prospects and trajectories of young minds across the UK. Before I knew it, I was navigating through waves of literature and ended up doing a literature review, data analysis, and crafting insightful interview questions to be used to garner primary data. This was all geared towards piecing together a mosaic of knowledge surrounding the newly introduced T-Levels in the UK.
I was definitely hesitant when writing my research report, always being filled with doubts but as I delved more into the process, I started to enjoy it! As the days unfolded, what initially seemed like a mountainous task, transformed into a riveting journey of discovery. This placement became a treasure trove of learning and an avenue of growth where I honed my skills in report writing, data analysis and critical thinking.
Every step of the way, I was nurtured and guided, turning apprehensions into accomplishments. The regular catch-up meetings with my mentor who I am greatly thankful for, Katherine Emms became platforms of growth, where feedback turned into fuel that powered my research journey. Bit by bit, the jigsaw pieces came together, forming a comprehensive picture of T-Levels.
To top it off, I had the opportunity to have numerous meetings with members of the Edge Foundation team, such as the executive director Olly Newton whom I accompanied on a meeting surrounding the Universal Framework which I later incorporated into my final report. Additionally, Josh Patel aided me in the basis of writing a research report and Sorah Gluck and Elena Wilson gave me a deeper insight into the policywork and function of Edge.
As the days turned into weeks, my confidence soared, and my report began to take shape. Each page became a testament to not just the evolving landscape of T-Levels but also my personal growth as a researcher, one who could now weave a narrative combining data, personal insights, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. Looking back, the journey was nothing short of transformative as not only did I emerge with a substantial research report under my belt, but I also gained an invaluable understanding of the nuanced world of educational research. A world where every data point tells a story and where every finding has the power to shape the future. I understood the true extent for the need of educational reform and how deeply rooted problems of educational inequality are which has to be addressed in order for students all across the country to flourish.
I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Nuffield Foundation and the Edge Foundation for this incredible opportunity. I now find myself as an advocate for transformative education, a voice urging students to embrace opportunities that allow them to dive deep into the realms of research, to ask questions, to explore, and to never shy away from seeking help and through numerous youth panels, I will continue to use my voice as a catalyst for change. I now hope to join the Edge Foundation’s Youth Network to remain active in discussions surrounding education.
As I stand at the threshold of new beginnings, I carry with me not just a report but a treasure trove of experiences, learnings, and the realisation that the world of research is a playground of endless possibilities, waiting to be explored. With this newfound knowledge, I hope to carry on this passion for researching into university, where I hope to study in America and potentially double major in International Relations and Economics.
To all future interns teetering on the edge of this exciting venture, I say, take the plunge, immerse yourself in the learning, and embark on a journey that promises not just growth but a horizon of opportunities and discoveries.
Taha Tariq, a temporary Edge Researcher, signing off.
Read Taha's completed research below.
