Steve Walker
- Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for Working with Children and Families BA & MA
- Institute of Health
- Social Science
- Email: steve.walker@cumbria.ac.uk
- Tel: +44 (0)1524 590800
- Location: Lancaster
Biography
I have an interest in the connection of theory to practice that has developed from substantial experience in youth and community work practice and management. The notion of praxis and achievement towards an effective student experience is an underpinning value that I apply to a social justice framework in my teaching.
The importance of practitioner knowledge, skills, understanding and ability to represent a social justice and ethical framework from which future practitioners and therefore young people and communities can develop growth and ongoing sustainability is an active interest area.
With a passion for improving young people voice through co-creating to align to contemporary practice, the development of equality and equity for young people remains a focus in my roles.
Qualifications and memberships
MA Childhood and Youth;
Postgraduate Certificate in Integrated Practice in Children and Young People's Services;
Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education
BA (Hons) Community and Youth Studies.
Member of The Professional Association of Youth and Community Work Lecturers
JNC Professional Youth and Community Work Qualification
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
Academic and research interests
Young People and Participation
Curriculum Focus & Development
Integrated practice and service development.
Practitioner Development; Leadership and Management
Practitioner Training and Applied Criticality in Practice
Young People's Hopes and Aspirations: Starting From Strengths
Student Experience and Achievement
Social Policy and the relationship to the professions
Co-Creation and Equality
Publications
Walker, S. and Noble-Grey, G. (2018) 'A Critical Discussion Investigating Purposeful Assessment: Exploring Higher Education Expectations'. Learning and Teaching Fest. Lancaster: UOC
Bradley, L. and Walker, S. (2016) 'Teaching From The Inside Out'. Learning and Teaching Fest. Carlisle: UOC.
Lockney, K. and Walker, S. (2015) 'Finding a balance: tensions between creating a supportive environment for students and promoting high academic expectations'. Learning and Teaching Fest. Carlisle: UOC
Stuart, K., Walker, S. et al. (2019) "Developing an Equalities Literacy for Practitioners Working with Children, Young People and Families through Action Research". Educational Action Research, March 2019. DOI: 1080/09650792.2019.1593870
Recent external roles
Community Development Officer - Ministry of Defence Germany/Europe
Youth and Community Development Work Consultant
Organisational Training and Development Practitioner