Personal profile
Research interests
My research interests emerge from the theory and practice of teaching English at secondary and post 16 levels. As a student-centred teacher, I am keen to use research to inform practice, both my own and that of others, as well as improving the experience of learners. I have previously undertaken small-scale qualitative projects on aspects of the secondaery English classroom: talk as a teaching tool; the effectiveness of formative assessment; changing reader identity; transition from GCSE to A Level. My doctoral study focused on pedagogy to support reading engagement in KS3 (age 11 - 14).
Approach to teaching
My teaching is shaped and influenced by my experience as a secondary practitioner and my own postgraduate studies. I use a variety of active approaches to encourage learners’ engagement and stimulate their curiosity. With a background in English Literature, I am keen to promote critical scutiny of all texts whether a Rossetti poem, an Atwood novel or a DfE policy document.
Supervisory Interests
I am keen to supervise projects aligned to my own expertise and interests in the theory and practice of secondary English.
Previously, I have supervised students on the UoB MA Education programme, exploring a broad range of pedagogical topics. I am currently supervising an English teacher in Stage 1 of the EdD.
Scholarly biography
I am currently Senior Lecturer in the School of Education teaching predominantly at postgraduate level across ITE courses and provision for in-service educators. I am Route Leader for the PGCE English (secondary) but contribute to other programmes within the school.
I am a qualified secondary English teacher and worked for over twenty years in schools and colleges across Sussex before joining the UoB.
Knowledge exchange
I am a longstanding member of NATE, attending the annual conference and other events at local and national level.
Education/Academic qualification
PhD, What are the enablers of and barriers to reading in KS3 English?, University of Brighton
Award Date: 22 Nov 2021
Master, MA Education, University of Sussex
Award Date: 1 Oct 2013
PGCE Secondary English, University of Sussex
Award Date: 30 Jun 1993
Bachelor, English with Media and Communications, University of Wolverhampton
Award Date: 16 Jul 1992
External positions
External Examiner, Anglia Ruskin University
Sept 2018 → Aug 2022
Keywords
- PE English
- PR English literature
- PZ Childrens literature
- L Education (General)
- LB1603 Secondary Education. High schools
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