معرفی
Alka Townend is an Assistant Professor in Primary Education and Early Years at the School of Education and Social Work, University of Sussex. She joined in 2020 and currently leads the Curriculum and Assessment module for the BAPEYE program. Previously, she held roles at Kingston University, Roehampton University, and UCL, focusing on teacher education and primary teaching. Her research centers on child bereavement and the use of picture books as pedagogical tools in emotional development.
Education background: Alka has extensive primary teaching experience in state and independent schools in Surrey. She also founded a theatre group promoting collaborative learning through process drama.
Research Interests: Alka investigates educators' responses to bereaved children in primary schools and advocates for emotional support strategies. She trains school staff on childhood bereavement management and volunteers with a UK charity.
Awards:
- Sussex Extra Mile Award (2021) – Recognizing exceptional student support.
Advising & Leadership: Current Course Leader for Curriculum and Assessment; former Year Group Lead for BA1. Co-convenes Year 1 and 2 English modules and previously led Professional Knowledge and Curriculum Knowledge 1 modules.
Additional Contributions: Develops drama-based educational initiatives and integrates children's literature into classroom practices.
