From Convenor to Conductor: Leading Teams for Large-Scale Modules

In the final instalment of this series on teaching at scale, we explore effective approaches to leading and coordinating a teaching team. Teaching 500+ students takes a team. Here’s how to lead one with clarity, collaboration and care.

No one teaches a mega-module alone. When your student cohort reaches 500+, success hinges not just on what you teach, but on how you lead. Tutors, markers, admin staff, and adjuncts all play vital roles – and coordinating that work requires a clear vision, thoughtful planning, and genuine collaboration.

Exeter educators have shared their insights on what it takes to lead teaching and marking teams effectively in extra-large modules.

1. Set the Tone Early

Great team leadership starts with clear, consistent communication. Early in the term (or before), hold a kick-off meeting to:

·       Share the module vision, values and expectations

·       Outline timelines and key deliverables

·       Identify areas where tutors or markers may need extra support

This creates shared purpose – and gives space for questions, suggestions and alignment before things get busy.

Follow up with weekly email updates during term time to help tutors stay ahead and feel connected, especially if they’re working across multiple modules.

2. Equip Your Team to Teach Confidently

Not every tutor will be familiar with the module content, especially if it includes newer or non-mainstream concepts. Help them succeed by providing:

·       Standardised slide decks and resources (shared via cloud folders)

·       A summary of key ideas and expected learning outcomes

·       Notes on likely student responses or common misconceptions

When introducing debates or unfamiliar frameworks, consider offering a short training or orientation session. Even basic debate facilitation guidance can boost confidence and quality.

3. Value and Support Adjuncts

Part-time and occasional staff are often essential for delivery and marking in large modules. Yet they can easily feel disconnected if not actively supported. To change this:

·       Include adjuncts in team meetings and communications

·       Ensure they are booked for office hours, not just delivery

·       Invite their feedback after key module stages

Investing in adjuncts creates a more stable, engaged team – and ensures students receive consistent support.

4. Lead the Marking Like a Project

Marking is a high-stakes phase in large modules. Effective leadership here means:

·       Providing marker packs with examples and marking criteria

·       Holding a calibration session before marking begins

·       Reviewing sample scripts from each marker early in the process

·       Maintaining an open Teams space or forum for real-time questions

After grades are released, hold a short debrief to reflect on what went well and what can be improved. This closes the loop and strengthens the team for next time.

5. Celebrate the Team

Teaching a mega-module is intense. Acknowledge the contributions of your team, both formally and informally. Whether it’s a thank-you email, a feedback session, or an end-of-module celebration – recognition matters.

Great convenors don’t just manage people. They build community, cultivate trust, and lead with empathy. That’s what keeps big modules running and teams coming back.

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