Jane Knowlson

Jane Knowlson is a Senior Lecturer in Primary Initial Teacher Training at Teesside University's SSSHL Education, Teaching Training and Social Work School. She leads modules on PGCE and BA routes and has 32 years of teaching and leadership experience, including serving as a primary school Head Teacher in North Yorkshire. She collaborates with the Tees Valley Educational Trust on funding bids for teacher CPD and works with local youth organizations to support vulnerable young people's career aspirations.

Education:

• Bachelor of Education with Honours (University of Wales, 1991)
• National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH, 2012)
• Autism Lead Certification (Autism Education Trust, 2014)
• National Award for SENDCo (Edge Hill University, 2015)
• Strategic Lead Level 6 (University of Brighton, 2019)

Research Focus: Jane specializes in Autism and SEND, safeguarding in primary education, attachment theory, trauma-informed practices, and supporting vulnerable student populations such as looked-after children and young carers. Her work integrates practical strategies for inclusive education and teacher training.

Grants & Collaborations:

• Securing funding via MIMA to deliver CPD programs for Tees Valley primary schools
• Partnership with Darlington SEND Team and Tees Valley Educational Trust
• International outreach through British Council-led teacher training in Spain

Awards & Recognition:

• Recipient of National Award for SENDCo (2015)
• Primary Educational Representative for Darlington Serious Case Review Partnership