Neil Gilbride

Dr Neil Gilbride is an Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the University of Worcester's Institute of Education and serves as Associate Dean at Ambition Institute. His research focuses on integrating adult developmental psychology, complexity theory, and organizational theory to analyze educational leadership decision-making and practitioner development. Key research themes include 'wicked' leadership challenges in complex settings, professional development's impact on decision-making, and methodologies to study leadership dynamics.

Neil holds a PhD in Educational Leadership from the University of Bath (2021), an MEd in Psychology and Education from the University of Cambridge (2011), and a BSc in Biomedical Science from St George's Hospital Medical School (2009). He secured a £250,000 ERASMUS+ grant for 'Getting Heads Together,' a professional development initiative addressing leadership complexity in schools. His work also extends to applying psychological insights to special/inclusive educational needs, notably contributing to Oak National Academy's SEND provision during the pandemic.

With 20+ years in education, Neil's career spans roles from teaching in secondary schools to national-scale professional development mobilization. He advocates for bridging theory and practice through knowledge mobilization, influenced by his diverse experience including work with children with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), parent support in primary schools, and middle leadership roles. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and maintains a Chartered Psychologist designation.