Jane's Profile
Job title
Lecturer
Academic qualifications
PhD in the Philosophy of Education, PGCHE
"I have expertise in teaching and early years education and research. I’ve also served on the University of Warwick’s Early Years Foundation Degree Examination Board. These diverse experiences inform my teaching approach, as I aim to share practical, real-world insights to help my students understand the complexities involved in teaching."
I lead our MA course in Critical Reflection in Educational Practice, with expertise spanning creative and critical thinking in primary education, gender identity and inclusive educational practices, censorship and ethical accountability in storytelling, philosophy and ethics in education, and research methods.
My teaching career began as a middle school Religious Education and Maths teacher before moving to primary education across state, independent, religious, and SEND schools. I have particular expertise in early years education and research, teaching on Early Years Foundation Degree and Childhood Studies Degree programmes at Stratford-upon-Avon College, Telford College, and Yeovil College University Centre.
Having taught across a wide range of educational settings, I bring practical, inclusive insights that help students understand the complexities of diverse classroom environments. My specialism in early years education and research allows me to support students in developing both a strong theoretical foundation and the ability to apply it meaningfully in practice.
Finally, my experience in higher education, including teaching on degree programmes and contributing to examination boards (such as the University of Warwick’s board for its Early Years Foundation Degree), enables me to guide my students through academic expectations, research skills, and professional development. I aim to share practical, real-world insights to help my students understand the complexities involved in teaching, and I’m uniquely placed to set them up for success in both their studies and future careers in education.
I’m a Fellow of Advance HE, hold memberships with the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, Lead for the Primary Science Enhancement Award, the Further Education /Higher Education Teaching and Learning Partnership Programme, UCB’s Teaching Excellence Alliance (TEA) Professional Development (PD) Group, and I’m a UK Advising and Tutoring (UKAT) Affiliate Member. Holding these memberships means that I’m always connected to best practices, quality standards, collaboration and development opportunities, which ensures that my students always receive up-to-date, quality teaching aligned with both university strategy and broader sector standards. I’m also a member of MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) England, and supporting student wellbeing is one of my priorities.
Teaching at UCB is a personal honour of mine, as I’m following in the footsteps of my Mother, who taught here many years ago, and supported me in my own studies. I was proud to have been nominated by students for both ‘Inspirational Teacher’ and ‘Best Personal Tutor’ awards, reflecting their appreciation of my teaching and support. Although my classes are traditional in structure, students report that they’re highly engaging and that the atmosphere is relaxed, centred around discussions and critical thinking.
Outside of work, I serve as a Family Magistrate, supporting families in making decisions that prioritise the best interests of children. I’m also a qualified Swimming Instructor specialising in synchronised swimming, I’m learning the harp, and I enjoy going to the theatre and cinema. My PhD thesis was titled "The Challenge of Fairy Tales: Eliciting a Critical Gendered Response in Young Children", and, for that reason, I have a particular interest in seeking out innovative adaptations of fairy tales.