The evolution of RAISE.

Back in late 2024 I began exploring how emerging AI tools could support teaching, learning, and school systems (specifically ChatGPT, like everyone else!). It was soon after that that my 2 ECT (Early Career Teacher) colleagues came back from a training day bursting with ideas about AI tools. It was at this point that something in my head clicked that I could perhaps run with this new trend and finally couple my passion for IT projects and my experience teaching and start travelling in a new direction. What began as an interest in AI tools has evolved into something far more focused: helping schools use AI and digital systems responsibly to close gaps, reduce workload, and improve outcomes for pupils.

In the Summer of 2025 I started RAISE and built a website (using AI of course) to showcase my offering to schools (and businesses).

I was pretty pleased with my work but I was never quite settled on the colour scheme and structure. I don’t think I have ever “settled” on a final version with any IT project to be honest and I always think I can evolve it further. RAISE is no different. Through conferences, training, and conversations with leaders, one thing became clear: schools don’t need another list of tools - they need clarity, structure, and someone who understands both education and systems.

But that’s not enough for me. I like meeting people and learning things, but I really want to get into schools and talk to Education Leaders about how I can support them in harnessing the power of AI and digital tools to improve the outcomes for young people. That’s my background. That’s what excites me.

2025 has been a challenging year for me personally and professionally. I left a school where I loved the people and I haven’t been able to cut ties completely. I have gone part time, back into a state school and that has proved challenging on its own. Add to that the pressure I put on myself to make RAISE a success and earn enough money to support my family. However, this post is not a sob story or a “poor me”. I am pleased with the progress I have made so far and I have accepted that 4 months was an ambitious target to make a new business work, especially one without a “product”. What this period has given me, is clarity about the kind of work I want to do - and why it matters.

I spoke to an AI expert in the Summer and was told “any d***head can look up AI tools on the internet” when I explained what I was planning to do. They were right, but my ego took a hit with that comment and it took me a while to reframe it. Which leads me back to the title of this post – The evolution of RAISE.

2026 sees a new website being launched. 2026 sees a new Inclusion platform that I have built. 2026 sees my first paid booking. 2026 sees RAISE take off as a business. 2026 sees me follow my ambition and apply to speak at a conference. If 2025 was about building the foundations, 2026 is about working alongside schools to turn ambition into impact.