معرفی
Helen Benstead is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Research & Global Engagement (RGGS) at the University of Sunderland. She serves as Programme Leader for the MA in Special Educational Needs, Provision and Practice.
- BA (QTS) in Primary Education (University of Sunderland, 2007-2011)
- MPhil in Education with Distinction (University of Cambridge, 2011-2012)
- PhD in Education (University of York, 2012-2016, ESRC-funded)
Research Focus: Helen specializes in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with emphasis on inclusive education practices, teaching assistant roles, and social inclusion in mainstream primary settings. Her work explores how educational environments can better support SEND students through collaborative practices.
Recent Publications: Her 2024 article examines the use of 'research conversations' to interpret children's perspectives, while her 2022 book co-authored with Kerry Vincent provides methodological frameworks for inclusive education research. Earlier works focus on teaching assistants' impact on SEND students and policy analysis.
Professional Contributions: Helen founded the social enterprise Inclusive Classrooms, which offers training and resources for educators. She has also held policy roles in central and local government, including as a Youth Policy Advisor at the Cabinet Office and with the Mayor of London’s Education and Youth Team.
Collaborative Work: Notable collaborations include a 2017 report with Martin-Denham and Donaghue analyzing SEND prevalence in Sunderland, commissioned by the University of Sunderland and Sunderland City Council.
