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