Department of Education and Professional Studies
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Staff/student profiles
Canadian
Department of Education and Professional Studies
After completing my undergraduate degree in Canada I decided to travel abroad for postgraduate studies. I chose to study at King’s because of its world renowned reputation and its incredible location in the heart of London.
I am currently completing a Master’s of Science in Health Promotion with a focus on childhood cancer survivorship as the topic of my dissertation. As many of the course topics focus on issues that affect our current society, one of the main assets of the programme is its applicability to real life. We are often taught by a wide range of experts and professionals from various departments who encourage us to engage in meaningful discussions regarding the concept of health. In particular the Director of the Programme, Dr. Peter Duncan, has been exceptional in facilitating the course and providing a great deal of student support.
Thus far, studying at King’s has been a wonderful experience. As an international student, the staff and students have made me feel extremely welcome. The sense of community is truly unmatched to any other academic environment I have been a part of. Students are consistently encouraged to get involved in the wide array of activities and clubs available.
As a Student Ambassador at King’s, I have been able to participate in exciting events and meet new people, while earning money to help fund my studies. After graduation I plan to pursue a degree in medicine and I am confident that my studies at King’s will provide me with the necessary background to approach the concept of health from a new perspective.
Education Studies Foundation Degree/BA
After a successful career in the theatre and raising a family I decided to train to be a teacher. However, I did not have the necessary qualifications and I found it difficult to find a course that suited me. I was already employed as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant in a school, but I still needed to work – so combining both was imperative. King's College London is the only university in London to run this degree course and its reputation and facilities impressed me greatly.
I work four days a week and attend King's on the other day. I am enjoying my studies immensely, the environment is welcoming and not at all intimidating even though I am much older that most of the other students! I am even a student representative liaising between the course tutors and students.
The pastoral support at King's is fantastic. My lack of technology skills have not been an issue and any worries I have had, have been dealt with efficiently and confidentially. After my degree I plan to do a BA at King's and then hopefully apply to a graduate teaching programme within my school.
English Language & Communication BA
King's was my first choice as it offered a reputable degree in my subject and an exciting central London location. The degree offers so much choice in years 2 and 3, and I enjoyed perusing my interests by specialising in certain areas of linguistics. The option to study a new language for free at King's Modern Language Centre, as part of the degree was particularly tempting. What I love about the degree is that I don't need to decide exactly what I want to do with it straight away, it can open many doors into different fields and I like having the option to do anything I want.
Being part of the University of London means there are also some fantastic opportunities available; in my first year I lived in an intercollegiate hall which meant I got to meet a great mix of people from various London institutions as well as King's. Living in central London offers so much flexibility, the west end, museums, concert venues and hundreds of restaurants are all a stone's throw away. With so much going on around also means finding a part-time job has never been easier.
Philippines
English Language & Communication BA
Deciding to go abroad for university is one thing; choosing where to go is another. Coming from The Philippines, I had very ideal expectations upon moving to London and studying at King's, and it definitely did not disappoint on many different perspectives. I quickly fell in love with King’s and all that it had to offer, from the thought-provoking lectures and seminars that really get your mind working to the incredibly helpful people at The Compass. Besides, when your campus is a stones throw from the London Eye that pretty much means you've got the perfect location!
The social aspect of being at King's is also amazing. Getting to meet people from all over the world, and being able to talk to them about everything is easily one of the most enjoyable things about university life. Halls of residence are also a great place to be, especially if you're a fresher. Late nights spent outside with friends, enjoying a drink or two at the pub, or attempting to cook a proper meal on your own are great memories to have. King's is definitely the best place to be to have a well-rounded and extremely rewarding university life, and easily the best decision I've ever made.
Canadian
Department of Education and Professional Studies
Health Promotion MSc
After completing my undergraduate degree in Canada I decided to travel abroad for postgraduate studies. I chose to study at King’s because of its world renowned reputation and its incredible location in the heart of London.
I am currently completing a Master’s of Science in Health Promotion with a focus on childhood cancer survivorship as the topic of my dissertation. As many of the course topics focus on issues that affect our current society, one of the main assets of the programme is its applicability to real life. We are often taught by a wide range of experts and professionals from various departments who encourage us to engage in meaningful discussions regarding the concept of health. In particular the Director of the Programme, Dr. Peter Duncan, has been exceptional in facilitating the course and providing a great deal of student support.
Thus far, studying at King’s has been a wonderful experience. As an international student, the staff and students have made me feel extremely welcome. The sense of community is truly unmatched to any other academic environment I have been a part of. Students are consistently encouraged to get involved in the wide array of activities and clubs available.
As a Student Ambassador at King’s, I have been able to participate in exciting events and meet new people, while earning money to help fund my studies. After graduation I plan to pursue a degree in medicine and I am confident that my studies at King’s will provide me with the necessary background to approach the concept of health from a new perspective.
Education & Professional Studies Research MPhil/PhD, EdD/DrPS, DThMin
I chose to undertake my PhD in History Education at King’s as I had gained a very positive experience of the MRes programme in Education & Social Science and knew that I could rely upon receiving a high quality of PhD training and supervision.
I have not been disappointed in this as the supervision that I have received in both qualitative and quantitative educational research methods has been expert, rigorous and dedicated. I have also been able to call upon the help and advice of other members of staff in and outside my department. I have gained formal lecturing experience on the master’s course in Education and the experience of making scholarly presentations to research groups in fields directly and indirectly related to my research. This has made the experience of studying for a PhD at King’s a collegial and fulfilling one, as well as preparing me for an academic career that lies ahead.
The School of Social Science & Public Policy has generously funded my research into History Education & Muslim Boys in partnership with the Muslim Council of Britain. This partnership has not only been invaluable financially but has given my social research and ideas a direct outlet and relevance to the non-academic world.
China
Education & Professional Studies Research MPhil/PhD, EdD/DrPS, DThMin
Knowing King's College London to be one of the world leaders in education research, I was determined to come to London for my doctoral education studies after I received my bachelor and master's degrees in China. Fortunately, I was granted a KC Wong Scholarship, which is jointly funded by the KC Wong Foundation, Chinese and British governments.
Within my research, I'm looking at the impact of student aid policies in the Chinese context, research that I hope to be of use in helping those needy students in my home country. It has been an interesting time of professional development working alongside other members of staff: a busy but enjoyable two years.
The staff and supervisors are very supportive and the research environment is stimulating. In our department, you are always looking for alternatives, for new solutions, instead of just building on the old methods. The university resources are also excellent. Online resources, software availability and necessary laboratory equipment are provided and librarians and technicians are also on hand when I need them.
Child Studies MA
International Child Studies MA
Having studied Educational Science for my undergraduate degree in Germany, I chose the MA in Child Studies at King’s College in order to further my knowledge of child-related issues. I felt that in order to work with children successfully I needed to understand the different factors which contribute to a child’s welfare.
Courses in Child Studies were taught by university staff members as well as external lecturers, which enabled us to study current research and policy developments, as well as problems in practice settings. I particularly felt that the mixture of full- and part-time students was beneficial to the MA, as both groups were able to learn from each other’s experiences. The course work was demanding, but continuous supervision offered me the necessary support in order to reach a high academic standard.
After graduating from King’s College I returned to Germany in order to begin a training programme in child and adolescent psychotherapy. Already in my first week of work at a psychiatric unit I have had to draw upon the multidisciplinary knowledge which I had gained during my year in London. My studies at King’s College benefited me in so many ways and I can highly recommend this programme to anyone interested in a child-related career.
Indian
Education & Professional Studies MA
King’s is a prestigious university with an excellent reputation around the world; the fact that it is in the heart of London is an added bonus!
While many graduate degrees take two years to complete, especially in the US, the King’s full-time program takes a year. The MA modular programme is set up in a way that students have a vast choice of classes, not only at King’s but also at other University of London colleges.
The Waterloo Campus has a state-of-the-art, well-equipped library with quiet areas and private study rooms, which really come in handy especially for group work. The teaching staff are very informative, helpful and eager to share their knowledge and expertise. Classes are filled with students from all over the world who bring unique and interesting viewpoints to discussions.
King’s College organises tons of events, both social and academic that students can attend, and clubs (ukulele, Harry Potter appreciation society!) where members can share their hobbies and interests. During my year at King’s I have really enjoyed being a Student Representative and have gained some insight into both how the education department and the College in general are run. I am very impressed with how involved staff members are in ensuring their students have a great experience while attending King’s.
The skills and qualifications I have gained at King’s will no doubt help me further my professional career; I move back to Hong Kong to teach primary 1 in two weeks. I encourage prospective students to utilize all the facilities available to King’s students and enjoy their time in historic, vibrant London!
British
Education & Professional Studies MA
I chose to attend King’s College London because of its excellent reputation for teaching. I also learned about all the exciting things the university has to offer from its website.
The style of teaching has allowed me to express myself as lectures are discussion based. This means that students learn from one another and our experiences. King’s has provided excellent support to help me complete assignments and my research project. The library provides an excellent range of resources that allow me to complete my assignments to my best ability. One of the best experiences at King’s has been working closely with my dissertation supervisor, who has guided me, challenged me, and enabled me to make good progress.
The Waterloo Campus has excellent amenities for students and nice areas to study. My accommodation is fantastic and the underground system has ensured my journeys have been quick and pleasant. London’s public transport system has allowed me to visit new places within London.
I have taken out a professional development loan to pay for my studies. After the course I plan to teach in a primary school and complete my Newly Qualified Teacher year. The knowledge that former teachers have shared with me at King’s will be useful in my teaching career. I would advise anyone who wants an outstanding education, fantastic resources and an overall fun experience to come to King’s.
Hong Kong
English Language Teaching & Applied Linguistics MA
King's is a resourceful college as it teaches all aspects of English language teaching from a variety of angles. Both academic staff and my fellow classmates are comfortable dispensing their practical teaching experience in the UK and the location of the school itself is prime considering how close it is to the heart of London. It has been very easy making friends and settling into life here. My friends are a good mix of international students and local professionals. The participation in Learn to Lead program 2008 in London also widened my scope with 20 potential leaders round the world.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education PGCE
I have been associated with King's Education department for a very long time now. In the late 80s, in the throes of completing a maths degree and knowing that I wanted to go into teaching maths, I chose King's for my PGCE based on reports of their impassioned teaching and their significant track record of classroom-based research on mathematical learning and assessment. I loved the year, and proceeded to work in London comprehensive schools as a mathematics teacher in 1990.
Seven years later, and having pondered the idea of doing a Master's in Mathematics Education for a while, I chose King's again, now as an adult part-time student. For me, the Master's provided access to recent research in mathematics education, and opened up debates around issues relating to the inception and impact of national policy on classroom practice. I followed the Master's with a full-time PhD, supervision throughout the 4 years was exemplary.
I left England shortly after completing the PhD, and armed with references from my supervisors, gained a post-doctoral research post in mathematics education at Wits University in Johannesburg. I continue to collaborate with King's staff on research, and would not hesitate to recommend King's for anyone considering postgraduate study.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education PGCE
After graduating from King's, I went on to complete a PGCE at King's too and I am now a teacher of French and Spanish in a grammar school. The fact that King's has such a good reputation came up in the course of the interview and was a key selling point in helping me to obtain my present teaching job.
I had a great time as a student at King's, the lecturers were approachable and I very much enjoyed the support and friendship of my fellow students, many of whom are still close friends.
Science Engagement & Communication BSc
Emily’s background combines academic research with practical experience of working in a range of different public engagement with science roles.
Before becoming a Lecturer on the Science Engagement and Communication course, Emily worked with science centres, museums, scientific societies, science documentary film makers and government. Her jobs ranged from designing exhibits and events at museums to helping to make documentaries about science and organising discussion events for national government consultations on scientific issues.
Emily’s research focuses on bridging the divides between the political, cultural and educational aspects of public engagement with science, with an emphasis on social equity. She has taught subjects such as Science in the Mass Media, Social Inclusion in Science Communication, and Science in Society at other universities including University College London, the University of the West of England and the Royal College of Art.
Child Studies MA
International Child Studies MA
I worked for four years as a consultant in hospital paediatrics and neonatology, and have been a consultant community Paediatrician since 1999. I love working with an inner city diverse population and hold a broad case load of developmental and disability work, immunisations and public health, child death meetings, child protection and Looked After Children assessments, as well as on call commitments for the Haven sexual abuse service in Camberwell. I am committed to a clinical approach that enables children (and carers) to reach their potential, and allows the voice of the child to be heard. My research interests include the health needs of refugee and asylum-seeking children and public health related paediatrics. I joined Child Studies as co-director for health in 2006 and love the opportunity to reflect on my work from an academic perspective as well as learning more from multidisciplinary perspectives on the needs of the child. Over the years I have also valued a number of opportunities to work abroad for short periods teaching and learning in both hospitals and community settings and welcome being able to maintain this international interest within the Child Studies programme.
Child Studies MA
International Child Studies MA
Before working at King’s, I studied for a BA in History and Sociology, an ESRC-funded Masters in Social Research and PhD (Department of Sociology, University of Warwick). My PhD was a sociological study examining children’s (age 8-10 years) understandings of family and close relationships, in particular, the meaning children give to relationships and connectedness in contemporary society. Building upon the data generated for my doctoral research, I have undertaken postdoctoral research at King’s College (Keeping each other safe) which examined the extent to which children perceive themselves, and children more generally, to be able to help and provide emotional and practical support for one another. Asking children to identify those they turn to for support, and the people that they provide support for enabled an exploration of the people at the centre of children’s personal lives. Both projects form the basis of a book about children’s personal lives, which I am currently working on.
This research informs my teaching on the MA Child Studies and the MA International Child Studies. A sociological approach to child studies encourage students to examine children’s experiences of childhood internationally, the ways in which childhood is socially and culturally constructed, and to reflect upon how such constructions manifest in policy and practice, which in turn shapes aspects of childhood experience.
The relatively small cohort of MA Child Studies students allows students and staff to get to know one another well, and makes teaching on, and studying for this MA a rich and rewarding experience. Staff teaching on this programme work hard to ensure that there are opportunities to socialise with those studying on and contributing to the Masters programmes through end of term parties and post-presentation drinks and nibbles. Whilst the primary aim of such get togethers is social, the network of international contacts that students develop and foster throughout these programmes will be invaluable to a future child-related career.
- Listen to Hayley on BBC Radio 4 - Thinking Allowed, Surnames - War, Politics and comic strip Superheroes
Child Studies MA
International Child Studies MA
I practised at the Family Law bar for over a decade, specialising in child protection cases before moving to work at King’s in 2005. I was a trustee of The Children’s Society from 2003-2011, and was a member of the Good Childhood Inquiry steering committee. As a graduate of the MA Child Studies myself, I am convinced of the value of a multi-disciplinary approach to childhood issues, the importance of evidence-based research to professional practice, and also the stimulation and excitement of learning with and from others from different disciplinary and cultural backgrounds.
I’m interested in all aspects of the child protection system, particularly the state’s responsibility for children in state care, and the apparent tensions between children’s rights and their welfare. My current research is concerned with the educational transitions of care leavers and has led to my interest in ethical issues arising from research with vulnerable children and young people.
If you would like further information about the either of the programmes, or to discuss their suitability for you, you are very welcome to contact me directly at jenny.driscoll@kcl.ac.uk.
Child Studies MA
Education & Professional Studies MA
Education, Policy & Society MA
The courses that I lead offer students an opportunity to read, reflect and conduct research into an aspect of educational policy and provision that they are curious about and want to explore in more detail. Our courses offer students particular insights into a sociologically, historically and policy-oriented approach towards education provision.
I completed an MA and a PhD at King’s and have a great fondness for the College. As an alumni, I can testify to the rigour of the courses. As a tutor and researcher, I can also testify to the quality of the library provision and other facilities that are essential to the development of critical scholarship.
Some of our students already work in educational settings as teachers, lecturers, administrators and policy workers. Other students follow our courses with the intention of doing further study or moving into or on in their educational careers. Whether you already work in education or are simply fascinated by studying one of the key welfare provisions that any country makes, we hope that if you choose to join us in the department, that your time will become an enriching investment into your personal and professional development. I know it was for me!
Doctorate in Education/Professional Studies EdD, DrPS
I am one of the directors of the taught doctorate in Education (EdD) and Professional Studies (DPS). This professional doctorate was one of the first of its kind in the UK, providing internationally recognized expertise through interdisciplinary approaches to subject areas related to Education and Professionalism, including psychology, sociolinguistics, mathematics and science education, museum learning as well as health care.
English Language Teaching & Applied Linguistics MA
Applied Linguistics is a thriving research area at King’s with over 25 members of staff belonging to the Language Discourse & Communication research group and a large number of students from BA level to PhD and beyond. Staff who teach on this programme have extensive experience of English Language Teaching programme evaluation, assessment, teacher education and curriculum design in EFL, ESOL, ESP and EAP. Based on this we have designed an MA programme which provides a thorough introduction to theory and research in the field, as well as a range of professional option modules in practical areas such as language testing, materials, teaching EAP and teaching ESOL. We feel that a good balance of theory and its practical application allows teachers to develop their careers in a number of different directions, and many teachers who have taken this programme have progressed to senior positions.
Inclusive Education & Technology MA
This programme was launched in 2009 and offers part-time and full-time routes using a mix of face-to-face and online learning. The face-to-face teaching is concentrated in term one, offering a low-cost route to studying in London. The programme is unique in the UK, both in its content and in its style of delivery. Those taking the programme have included teachers, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and lecturers from a wide range of countries as well as the UK.
I joined King’s College London in 1994; since then I have developed a range of publications, teaching and other activities around the use of assistive technologies for inclusive education. I am also the Editor of the Journal of Assistive Technologies. My current research focuses on interdisciplinary understandings of the uses of assistive and enabling technologies for learning.
Language & Cultural Diversity MA
The MA in Language & Cultural Diversity addresses many of the crucial processes that you find in multilingual global cities like London, and on the course team, there is a great deal of experience teaching and researching them. My colleagues and I work and write about topics like language and identity, conversational stories, translation, code-switching, language policy, new media and popular culture, linguistic difference and the links to culture and thought.
You’ll find that as well as the MA itself, there are a lot of other activities to engage you such as visiting lectures by well-known scholars, regular seminars, data sessions, and lots of other students with similar interests. Plus, of course, we are located right by the River Thames next to the South Bank arts complex as well as a number of good eating places, so there is no shortage of things to do when you want to take a bit of time to relax!
Masters in Teaching & Learning MTL
King’s College Department of Education and Professional Studies is particularly attractive for potential students because the strength of research within the department (Third nationally in the most recent RAE) feeds directly in to the teaching on the courses on offer. Students have the opportunity to engage with leading edge researchers in a way that would be impossible elsewhere. Kings staff bring this aspect of the departments work to the development and delivery of the MTL in the London region.
I spent over 30 years working in state secondary schools, leaving a post as Deputy head of a school facing challenging circumstances to become a senior lecturer at King's College London. I bring aspects of this experience to all my work with beginning and more experienced teachers. With this recent school based background I was naturally very concerned that the new MTL should be relevant to the day-to-day practice of the teachers who will be doing the degree and felt able to make sure that this was the case.
My research focus concerns the effectiveness of continuing professional development in the past and how lessons learned from earlier programmes may inform present and future practice. The new MTL has allowed me to put this interest to immediate and practical use.
The expectation (from government) is that teaching will become a Masters profession (‘Being the Best for our Children’, DCSF, 2008). This degree is one way for individual teachers to achieve that aim. In addition, the reflection and enquiry that participants will be engaged on, in this course, would be expected to make them better candidates for promotion within their profession.
Youth Ministry MA
I teach on the Youth Ministry MA programme, which is one of eight master’s degrees in theology and ministry launched at King’s in 2008. Each of the programmes is specifically designed to help youth ministers, clergy, worship leaders and those working in NGO’s and charities to think theologically about their practice. Although the programmes are based in the Department of Education & Professional Studies, the teaching is shared with the Department of Theology & Religious Studies.
My academic research and writing has been energised and shaped by the questions that came out of my work as a Youth Minister. I am interested in how faith communicates in contemporary culture; in particular the questions concerning worship, new forms of church and ministry among young people. My latest project is based around theology and celebrity culture.
