About

I teach across the Primary Initial Teacher Education programmes with a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and Inclusion focus. As Assistant Programme Lead for the PGCE Primary, my role includes the team leadership and organisation of the provision, supporting and facilitating professional development for our beginning teachers through our ITT/E curriculum. I am also a personal academic tutor to our PGCE beginning teachers.

Teaching responsibilities

My role includes facilitating teaching and learning across the BEd/MEdu and PGCE Core and School Direct programmes. I focus on delivery around supporting diverse learners within the primary classroom through the use of inclusive teaching strategies and the development of practitioner knowledge of SEND. I also work alongside the Bell Foundation as a Lead Practitioner to build teacher knowledge on supporting multilingual learners.

Research interests

I am interested in the mental wellbeing of trainee teachers and the notions surrounding teacher retention rates. I am also interested in developing teacher knowledge and understanding of supporting learners who are new to English.

Membership of professional bodies

• Lead Practitioner for the Bell Foundation

Qualifications

• Academic Professional Practice Apprenticeship - University of Derby
• PG Cert. in Higher Education - University of Derby
• EdM in Developmental Studies with Language and Literacy - Boston University, USA
• National Award for SEND Coordination - University of Northampton
• BA (ED) Geography and the Environment with QTS - University of Reading

Experience in industry

With over 20 years of experience in the Primary education sector, I have taught in many school settings ranging from small rural schools to larger inner-city settings. I have also led on SEND management as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator, a challenging yet rewarding role.

International experience

Whilst studying for my Masters in Education at Boston University, Massachusetts, I had the opportunity to teach within the American school system, gaining international insight into the challenges of Primary teaching and the provision for pupils with SEND. I also worked alongside students on the Reading teacher programme, offering support and guidance on their professional practice.