Neil Deakin

Sparking a passion for Educational Technology

Neil entered the teaching profession as a secondary teacher of art in 1994 after graduating from Coventry University with a fine art degree and completing his PGCE in Birmingham. With his Digital HiNote Intel 486 laptop, running Windows 3.1 NT, he was the only teacher with a computing device that could be carried from classroom to classroom.

Captivated by interactive whiteboards in the late 90s, Neil joined Promethean in 2001, as a Teaching and Learning Advisor he helped teachers engage pupils through this innovative medium. His blend of commercial intuition and educational passion led him in 2006 to Steljes, a leading technology distributor who brought the SMARTboard to the UK, where he focused on pioneering new technologies.

Neil led a team of graduates, developed market strategies, and introduced cutting-edge products across multiple sectors. He supported large-scale events, including a BBC Question Time session for 1500 secondary pupils, and developed training content for England RFU referees and players.

Turning Technology into Impact

Concerned that not all teachers and pupils were experiencing the benefits EdTech promised, Neil's curiosity led him to develop Impact projects, using action research methods to improve technology adoption and enhance learning outcomes. His whitepaper on this topic and workshops helped many schools deliver more effective CPD.

As with his professional career Neil is a collaborator and away from the EdTech world Neil is involved in community projects and as a church leader has been involved in multi-agency work, often supporting the most disadvantaged and disenfranchised in the community.

Joining Elementary Technology

More recently, Neil returned to teaching, concentrating on primary education and frequently supporting pupils who face challenges in accessing the curriculum. Recognising untapped potential of education technology to enhance learning outcomes, Neil approached Elementary Technology due to our strong commitment to adding significant value to schools.

In his new role as Strategic Education Lead, Neil will collaborate with Multi Academy Trusts and support large infrastructure projects, all aimed at fulfilling his passion: delivering better learning experiences for all.