Alison's Profile
Job title
Senior Lecturer
Academic qualifications
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, MA Professional Studies in Childhood, PG Cert LTVS, PhD Intercultural Communication
"I was honoured to be recognised as 'The Student Whisperer' in the Education Department Staff Award, as I believe in creating a supportive learning environment where students can flourish both personally and professionally."
With a background spanning over a decade in primary schools, it’s my privilege to serve as a Senior Lecturer and programme lead for the BA (Hons) Primary Education Studies accelerated degree. I teach a range of modules across the course, which is an undergraduate degree completed in a shorter timeframe than the traditional three-year route - it’s not a teaching qualification on its own. After graduating, students can complete one year of further study or work-based training to qualify as teachers, making it a highly efficient route into the profession.
Prior to my academic career, I worked for over a decade in primary school settings supporting the learning and teaching of children aged 3-11, identifying additional support needs and creating specialist programmes for those facing communication difficulties. My role centred around building meaningful connections with parents, who were often at a point of worry and uncertainty.
I weave emotional intelligence and cultural competence into everything I do and aim to equip future graduates to make a difference and to be influential teachers by helping them to develop the self-awareness and interpersonal skills the profession demands. My classroom is a space for personal and professional development, as I invite students into a reflective journey that prepares them for the realities of teaching, not just academically, but also emotionally and practically.
Supporting others’ wellbeing has long been a guiding principle in my work. I’m an advocate for the mental health of teachers and helping professionals, and I have additional training in counselling and therapeutic skills through the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This background has been invaluable as I help new teachers discover ways of working that foster not only resilience but the ability to truly thrive in their roles. By helping to cultivate reflective, emotionally intelligent, and passionate teachers, I know that the benefits ripple far beyond our classroom, reaching children and communities across society.
I’m proud to have received the Spotlight on Great Teaching Award in 2017 and to have been nominated every year since. In 2024, I was recognised as “The Student Whisperer” in the Education Department Staff Awards. Students describe my classes as both “intriguing” and “helpful” and appreciate the supportive environment I aim to create. I take pride in seeing students rise to challenges and come into their own as creative, determined professionals. Nothing beats hearing from graduates who have gone on to complete teacher training and accomplished their ambition of becoming a teacher.
My advice to new students is to choose a course you are genuinely interested in and work hard at it. Accept that you may need to make some mistakes in order to progress, and eventually you’ll reach where you want to be.
In my spare time, I’m happiest outdoors - walking, practising yoga, or simply enjoying nature. I share my adventures with my dog, John.