Carol Thompson

Dr. Carol Thompson is a Senior Lecturer in Post Compulsory Education at the University of Bedfordshire's School of Education. Her expertise spans teacher education, professional identity development, and mentoring in further education. She holds an EdD from the University of Nottingham, alongside an MEd and BA in Social Sciences.

Thompson's research focuses on educator agency, mentor development, and innovation in teaching practices. She has authored influential books such as Reflective Practice for Professional Development and The Trainee Teachers’ Handbook, and serves on the UCET Post 16 committee and as a FETL Fellow. Her work emphasizes practical solutions for teachers navigating institutional challenges while fostering professional growth.

Recent publications explore pandemic impacts on educator identity, mentorship strategies, and curriculum design. Thompson’s external roles include peer reviewing for Sage and OU Press, and she actively engages with international conferences on adult education and learning identities.

Her teaching expertise includes coaching trainee teachers and coordinating post-compulsory education programs. Thompson advocates for empowering educators through reflective practice and democratic mentoring approaches, addressing systemic barriers in further education.