Debbie Hocknull

I've spent years working hands-on with child development and inclusive teaching and I’m able to bring learning to life for my students. My specific expertise covers early years education and development, education and teaching practice, health and social care, safeguarding and child welfare and curriculum design and assessment. 

My professional background is rooted in education and child development across early years settings and Key Stages 1, 2, 3, and 4, giving me significant insight into learner progression, developmental needs, and differentiated teaching. I also held responsibility for managing an alternative curriculum within an alternative provision setting, where I supported learners with diverse and complex needs. This role strengthened my skills in inclusive practice, curriculum adaptation, behaviour support and pastoral care. Thanks to these experiences, I’m able to draw on real-life scenarios I’ve faced to bring the theory to life for my students. 

I’m most inspired by the opportunity to positively influence students’ development and their future professional practice. Also, our work is so rewarding as it has a direct and lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities. 

A common misconception is that our industries rely on only common sense or “being caring”. In reality, while compassion is essential, they’re serious academic fields of study based on research, legislation, ethics and evidence-based practice. 

I’m proud of my own journey into education as a mature student while raising two young children. In 2021, I was awarded the title of Associate Professor of Health and Social Care for my contributions to teaching, curriculum development and academic practice.