A Look Inside Equal Education: My Internship Experience

By Isabella Montini

“This internship has broadened my perspective on the critical role that supportive structures and environments play in fostering educational success, both for students and educators.” - Isabella Montini. 

Isabella Montini joined Equal Education through the IES Abroad London Summer Internship Programme, a leading non- profit, study abroad and internship programme which prioritises academic quality and quality student experience. 

She shares her journey and experience working closely with our experienced team and tutors to improve learning outcomes in young people. 

From the start of January, I have had the privilege of interning with Equal Education. This has been an invaluable, enriching, and insightful experience as I worked alongside a dedicated team that is committed to supporting students and families in need of additional educational services. With a background in education policy in the United States, I understand the stress and burnout that many teachers face on a daily basis. Equal Education provides a platform that empowers teachers to utilize their strengths, craft engaging lesson plans, and work on an hourly basis to mitigate burnout and reignite their passion for teaching. 

The students who participate in this program have benefited greatly from the individualized 1:1 tutoring offered by Equal Education. Throughout my internship, I have been able to collaborate with an exceptional group of tutors by conducting interviews, addressing their questions, and supporting them throughout the induction process to ensure they are prepared to begin tuition with Equal Education. 

Equal Education’s Unique Approach

The educational system in the UK is vastly different from that of the states, with a clearer focus on prioritizing the mental health of teachers and educators. This emphasis is reflected in Equal Education’s approach, offering educators an outlet to continue their passion for teaching without the overwhelming pressures of administrative and political burdens. While the United States is facing many issues exacerbating stress to all workers - but specifically teachers, the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education has led to a lack of federal oversight and significant disparities between schools. This not only leaves students vulnerable to discrimination but also places more strain on teachers, especially in underfunded schools, which results in a teacher shortage and widening inequalities across states and districts. I hope to bring my knowledge of different educational options back to the United States to continue to help teachers avoid stress and burnout and allow students to be treated equally and have educational needs met. 

Looking Ahead: Experience and Learnings 

Through my work with Equal Education, I have gained a greater understanding of how to make tutors and teachers feel valued, heard, and supported. This organization has created a pathway away from traditional teaching models, offering both students and educators an exceptional experience. I have also expanded my knowledge of the specific needs of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), children looked after, and asylum seeking children, and I have witnessed firsthand how organizations like Equal Education can provide them with the tailored care and emotional support they need to thrive. This internship has broadened my perspective on the critical role that supportive structures and environments play in fostering educational success, both for students and educators. I am very thankful to have had this opportunity in London and it is an experience I will never forget.