Lesley Kay

Dr Lesley Kay is a Principal Lecturer and Senior Lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire, serving as the Professional Lead for Midwifery and Lead Midwife for Education (LME). She provides professional leadership and academic management for midwifery programs, coordinates teaching staff, ensures academic standards, and advises on strategic directions.

• PhD in Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire (2016)
• Master of Studies in Primary and Community Care, University of Cambridge (2007)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education, University of Cambridge (2007)
• BSc (Hons) in Midwifery (2000)
• BA (Hons) in English Literature (1988)

Lesley’s research explores women's expectations and experiences of birth, global midwifery, respectful maternity care, and leadership in midwifery. Her PhD study analyzed generational understandings of birth through hermeneutic phenomenology, while her work with the Royal College of Midwives in Bangladesh focuses on collaborative education initiatives.

She is recognized for her contributions to midwifery education and professional standards, including accountability to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and leadership in academic program development.

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) – 2017