John Pegg

Professor John Pegg is a distinguished academic and director of the SiMERR National Research Centre at the University of New England (UNE), Faculty of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education. He has held roles since 1979, including lecturer in mathematics education, foundation director of CRiLT (2003 Commendation Award recipient), and leader of the QuickSmart initiative. His research focuses on cognitive development, mathematics education, and teacher professional growth, emphasizing rural and regional educational equity.

He holds degrees including a PhD in Education (UNE), a Doctor of Education (Honoris Causa) from Philippine Normal University (2015), and has supervised 35 PhD students. His work spans international collaborations, including projects in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, and has led to influential programs such as ESSA (diagnostic science testing) and QuickSmart (supporting underachieving students).

• Education: B.Sc., Dip.Ed., M.Math., Ph.D. (UNE), Doctor of Education (Honoris Causa, Philippines).
• Key Projects: QuickSmart, ESSA, Philippine National Research Centre for Teacher Quality, Saudi Arabia Professional Standards.
• Awards: Vice Chancellor’s Researcher of the Year (2003), William Walker Award (2010), Honorary Doctorate (2015).

Professor Pegg’s legacy includes over $40M in research grants, 80+ keynote addresses, and transformative contributions to teacher quality, rural education, and cognitive development frameworks like the SOLO Model.