Simon Kumar

Dr Simon Kumar is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Lead for the BA Education, SEN and Mental Health degrees at York St John University. He joined the university in 2015, with teaching and leadership experience in Physical Education, Youth Sport, and Children’s Education. His professional background includes roles in the British Armed Forces, disability sports development, and as an ECB Coach Developer. He holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) focused on teacher well-being, exploring perfectionism and burnout in pre-service primary teachers.

Dr Kumar’s research interests span teacher mental health, technology in education, physical education environments, disability sport, and military transition. He co-leads the Inclusion, Society and Education research group and has published in peer-reviewed journals like International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology and Quest. He teaches modules including Learning in Practice, Inclusive Education, and Dissertation Supervision, and supports leadership development through the Leadership Skills Foundation.

Professional activities include primary school PE consultancy, Goalball UK leadership, and membership in organizations like the CIMSPA and International Physical Literacy Association. His qualifications include a Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy and a PGCE in Primary Education.