When it comes to creating technology to address real pain points in the the classroom, the Education Foundation knows where to look first: teachers. This week, the London-based think tank is accepting applications for its first Edtech Accelerator program specifically designed for teacher innovators and teacher-led startups. Thirty spots are available--10 will be fully supported by the program (a £5000 value, says program director Ian Fordham); the other 20 will be partially funded by schools and companies.
In an email to EdSurge, Fordham says the program will offer a mix of online and in-person evening sessions on topics like "education landscape knowledge, design thinking, coding, UX design, lean startup methodology, field trials and technical and legal support." Participating mentors so far include Ben Barton (CEO, Zondle), Tome Hulme (Design Director, IDEO London), and Sam Chaudhary (Co-founder, ClassDojo). At the end of the program, companies will be introduced to potential funders. (The Accelerator program will not take an equity stake in the startups.)
Application are due by October 30; the program begins on November 14.
