Academic Tutor
I first joined the University in 2017 as an undergraduate on BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS. Although my initial goal was to pursue a career in primary education, I soon discovered that my real interest lay in research and higher education. For my undergraduate dissertation, I conducted a project that centred on supporting primary teachers with the implementation of the RSE curriculum and the adoption of LGBTQ+ inclusive practices. I then went on to study MA Education to extend my learning and dive deeper into equality, diversity, and inclusion. Building on my undergraduate research, my thesis project explored the identity formation and navigation of queer early career teachers.
In 2021, I became an Academic Tutor in the School of Education and now work across MA Education, MA International Education (DL), and MA Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion as a module leader and thesis supervisor. I also lead the European Social Fund Gender and Diversity short course, which aims to support businesses in the North East LEP area in developing workforce skills. Furthermore, I chair the staff Pride Network and work closely with the University’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion team.
I speak at a wide range of conferences and events and deliver consultancy to schools, universities, and businesses across the UK on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and social justice. I am also the founder of an organisation that aims to enhance LGBTQ+ provision in primary schools.
As a result of my studies and lived experience, I am keen to ensure that those from minority groups have their voices heard across all levels of education.
Teaching and supervision
I teach, support, and supervise across MA Education, MA International Education (DL), MA Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion on a range of modules including Gender and Diversity, Advanced Professional Practice in Subject Related Disciplines, and MA Thesis.
Research interests for potential research students
- LGBTQ+ inclusive education
- Trainee/ECT identity formation and navigation
- Critical thinking to support EDI
- Contemporary curriculum development
- LGBTQ+ inclusive education
- Teacher identity
- Queer identity
- Inequality and discrimination faced by sexual and gender minorities
- Social justice and inclusive policies in education