About

I am an assistant Head of Department for the Hand therapy, Occupational therapy, Prosthetic and Orthotic programmes. 

I have held a number of leadership roles including programme lead for undergraduate and post-graduate programmes and placement lead tutor. 

I am a senior lecturer and a member of the Occupational Therapy subject team which delivers both pre-registration occupational therapy programmes and masters levels programmes.

Teaching responsibilities

I currently teach on our Occupational Therapy programmes -  BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy and MSc (pre reg) Occupational Therapy.  

Professional interests

Before starting my academic career I was an Occupational Therapist working in children's services in the east midlands area of the UK. I help in leadership roles including head of service for occupational therapy and physiotherapy children's teams. As part of my clinical experience, I developed an interest in children's neurological and developmental disorders, specialist seating and postural management. 

I have an interest in the area of safeguarding and have been a foster carer for looked-after children. I volunteer in children's services. 

I previously worked in private practice within the specialist area of children's medico-legal practice. 

Research interests

My master's research was in the area of students' perception of continuing professional development. CPD is still an area of interest for both qualified, non-qualified and students. 

I am part of a research team looking at how students retain key occupational concepts when moving from being a student into their professional careers. 

Membership of professional bodies

I am a member of the following professional and regulatory bodies:

• British Association of Occupational Therapists
• Health and Care Professions Council 
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Qualifications

I hold the following qualifications:

• MA; Education leadership and Management
• Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching
• Diploma of the College of Occupational Therapists 

Recent conferences

I attend the European Network of Occupational Therapists in Higher Education conference and annual general meeting. 

Experience in industry

Prior to working in education, I worked in a number of NHS children's services. I also have experience with adult and children's learning disabilities, neurological and developmental disorders. 

I had a private practice for 5 years which provided interventions to children and their families and produced medico-legal reports for court.