As a third-year undergraduate English student at Brunel University, I recently had the opportunity to participate in the Open Innovation Team Policy School, an enriching and immersive experience aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of policy-making processes. The Policy School was run by the Open Innovation Team (OIT) in Whitehall, a cross-government unit and a partner of Brunel University. In this report, I aim to provide an insightful glimpse into the OIT Policy School from a student’s perspective, highlighting its significance, impact, and the valuable insights gained.
Before embarking on this journey, as a student approaching the end of my studies, I was eager to explore avenues beyond my academic discipline that could shape my future career path. Recognising the importance of understanding policymaking in today’s socio-political landscape. I saw the Policy School as an invaluable opportunity to broaden my horizons and acquire transferable skills. I set my expectations high and anticipated an engaging and informative experience.
From the moment the Policy School started, I was fully absorbed in a dynamic learning environment. The day was packed with thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, and engaging activities, all designed to deepen our understanding of policy development. Despite the intensity of the sessions, I found myself captivated by the diverse perspectives shared both by facilitators, who mentored us throughout, and fellow participants. Throughout the day I participated in group exercises, contributing ideas and insights while also learning from my peers.
The collaborative nature of the workshops fostered an inclusive environment where every voice was heard and valued. From analysing case studies to engaging in mock policymaking and implementation, each activity challenged us to think critically and creatively, preparing us for the complexities of real-world policy challenges.
Reflecting on my experience post-OIT Policy School, I am struck by the profound impact it has had on my understanding of policymaking. The hands-on approach to learning allowed me to grasp complex concepts more effectively, while the opportunity to interact with industry experts provided invaluable insights into the practical realities of policy implementation.
The most memorable aspect of the day was the opportunity to create a theoretical policy for a real-world scenario. Through interactive simulations and role-playing exercises, we were able to experience first-hand the complexities and nuances of policy decision-making. These simulations not only honed our analytical skills but also instilled in us a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of policymaking.
In conclusion, my participation in the OIT Policy School has been nothing short of transformative. Not only has it equipped me with practical skills and knowledge relevant to my academic and professional pursuits, but it has also inspired me to engage more actively in discussions surrounding public policy. Reflecting on my initial reasons for applying, I can say that the Policy School has exceeded my expectations, reaffirming my passion for policy analysis. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an inspiring and intellectually stimulating experience and would highly recommend it to fellow students seeking to broaden their understanding of policy development and implementation.
Brunel Public Policy organise this Public Policy school for Brunel CBASS Undergraduate and Masters students once per year. It is delivered in Whitehall government offices by active civil servants. Students secure places through responding to a call for competitive written applications.
Reported by:
Alexandra Gallbraith
Alexandra.Gallbraith@brunel.ac.uk