• Why did you join the TEd in EAP SIG?

I decided to join the Teacher Education in EAP SIG committee as a social media coordinator because I wanted to be more involved in the EAP community and contribute to its aims. Over time, I’ve realised that many EAP teachers, myself included, find their way into the field through quite informal routes, which can make it hard to feel a strong professional identity. Joining the committee felt like a chance to network with colleagues, share ideas and practices and make professional development opportunities more accessible. I see social media as a great way to connect people, start conversations and build a sense of community where teachers can learn from one another and feel more confident in their roles. 

• What part of the SIG/your work for the SIG do you enjoy most?

I really enjoy the creative side of the work I do for the SIG. Designing the logo, making templates, putting together flyers, and keeping a consistent look for the group and its events is genuinely fun for me. It’s a nice change of pace from teaching, and it feels good to give the SIG a clear visual identity that makes our events and posts easy to recognise. 

• What tips can you give people who want to start their own SIG?

If you’re thinking about joining or starting a SIG, I’d say go for it as it’s one of the best ways to connect with others who share your interests and passion for EAP. 

Start by finding an area you really care about and don’t worry if you’re not an expert. What matters most is curiosity and the will to learn and collaborate.

Attend conferences and PIMs; they are great opportunities to come together in person, celebrate what you’ve been working on and exchange ideas. They help turn all those online conversations and collaborations into something real and exciting. Working together can be really inspiring, and those connections often turn into lasting friendships.

• What is the most important thing someone can do to help their own development/teacher education?

Joining a SIG committee can be essential for someone’s development. At least, it was for me. It takes you out of your own bubble and puts you right in the middle of people who genuinely care about how the field is evolving. You end up learning so much just by being part of the conversations: how events are designed, how decisions are made, what colleagues across institutions are struggling with or excited about. And you suddenly realise you can contribute, even if you don’t feel like an expert. It gives you confidence, a sense of belonging, and a steady flow of ideas you can take straight back into your own teaching.