Chris Rolph

Chris Rolph serves as Associate Professor of Education Policy and Practice and Director of the Nottingham Institute of Education at Nottingham Trent University. With a background in physics and astrophysics research, he transitioned to education after 25 years of teaching science, including 13 years leading secondary schools in Lincolnshire before joining NTU.

His educational background includes a PhD from the University of Durham (1990). Rolph's professional journey spans from physics research through classroom teaching to academic leadership, providing him with unique insights into educational systems from multiple perspectives.

• School leadership and accountability frameworks
• Science education policy development
• Organizational change management in educational settings
• School funding mechanisms and financial sustainability
• Assessment systems and grading practices

Rolph's research consistently addresses critical challenges facing England's education system, particularly regarding infrastructure safety (including the Raac concrete crisis), funding shortfalls, and assessment reforms following the pandemic. His work bridges academic research with practical policy considerations for educational leaders.

As an active contributor to public discourse through The Conversation since 2016, Rolph makes complex educational issues accessible to broader audiences while maintaining academic rigor. His analysis often draws on his extensive frontline experience in school leadership to provide practical insights alongside theoretical frameworks.