Alison McMaster

I am a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for PGCE iQTS Primary Education. I studied for my degree largely via distance learning and subsequently retrained as a teacher with a specialism in Early Years. I later went on to study MA Education, again via distance learning. My experience is broad and ranges from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to Year 6.

I have held several management positions in schools and, through my role as English subject leader, my passion for teaching English language has been fuelled.

I have a wealth of experience in mentoring both trainees and newly qualified teachers, providing support and challenge to improve teaching and learning through best practice as well as establishing confidence in the classroom. As a result, I am extremely impassioned about the value of practicum placements and the importance of the support network available to trainees during this challenging time. With my own experience of independent distance learning, I appreciate how crucial a strong support network is for trainees studying via this route, and again, am keen to offer the support needed to be successful and maximise their university experience.

I'm keen to share my teaching expertise with others who similarly have a passion for enriching the lives of young people.