I am a dedicated academic leader with extensive experience in higher education, curriculum innovation, and strategic planning in sport and exercise sciences. Undergraduate Course Director at the University of Staffordshire, overseeing multiple programmes to ensure academic excellence and industry alignment.
I have a strong background in assessment innovation, student engagement strategies, and integrating digital and immersive learning techniques to enhance the student experience. I successfully led course redesign initiatives, implemented cutting-edge teaching methodologies, and fostered key industry partnerships to strengthen graduate employability. Beyond academic leadership, pivotal contributions have been made to enhancing student success metrics, including increasing applicant conversion, improving retention rates, and securing high levels of student satisfaction in national surveys. A commitment to pedagogical excellence and faculty development underscores a dedication to continuous improvement in higher education.
Professional memberships and activities
Fellow, Higher Education Academy Member, Staffordshire FA
Academic qualifications
Bachelor of Science in Sport & Exercise Science – Staffordshire University
Qualified Teacher Status (Outstanding) – 2015 Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
Expertise
- Curriculum Development & Educational Leadership
- Assessment Innovation & Pedagogical Strategies
- Immersive Learning & Digital Education
- Student Engagement & Retention Strategies
- Industry Partnerships & Stakeholder Management
- Sport & Exercise Science
Research interests
Research interests unsurprisingly involve physical education, and this is best split to two areas primary school and secondary school physical education
Primary School
The School sports premium has had a positive impact upon physical education in primary schools however, is this impact long term and sustainable? By developing and upskilling generalised primary school teachers to competently deliver physical education we would be going a long way to helping ensure this funding creates quality, sustainable and effective physical education. What CPD programs are currently out there? How effective are they? How accessible are these courses? These questions are essential to assess exactly how this funding is having a positive impact.
Secondary school
Research interest here include
- Physical education participation dropout rates amongst females in secondary schools, particularly those in deprived areas.
- The relationship between students GCSE performance and academy football scholarships.
- The impact different levels of activity has on exam performance.
Enterprise and commercial interests
Extensive experience in consultancy and curriculum development for educational institutions and sport organisations. Contributions include professional development programmes, assessment framework design, and innovative learning models within the sports industry.
Teaching
Teaching responsibilities on the Physical Education and Sports Coaching course include delivery across a range of modules designed to enhance both theoretical knowledge and applied skills. Inspiring Learning and PE Pedagogy focuses on contemporary teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and innovative strategies to engage learners in physical education. Sports Business and Entrepreneurship explores the commercial landscape of the sports industry, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to develop business ventures and navigate the evolving sector. CPD and Professional Practice supports students in developing their professional identity, fostering reflective practice, and preparing for career progression through industry engagement and continuous professional development.