Nick Riley

Associate Professor Nick Riley from the School of Education at the University of Newcastle is a leader in integrating physical activity into academic curricula. His 'Thinking While Moving' program (partnered with NSW DoE School Sport Unit) combines movement with mathematics and English lessons, demonstrating improved student behavior and academic outcomes through four RCTs. With 14 years of teaching experience in Northern England, Riley now focuses on pre-service teacher training through the Transform Ed study with Deakin University.

• Program Convenor for Bachelor of Education (Primary) since 2021
• Designed assessment tools for foundational movement skills via Best Start digital app

Research Expertise: Riley's work addresses physical activity integration, sedentary behavior reduction, and movement-based pedagogy in primary/secondary schools. His recent studies examine cognitively demanding physical activity in secondary mathematics.

Scientific Awards:

• 2021 College Excellence award for Community Engagement (Team)
• 2019 DVC (A) Merit List for Teaching Excellence
• 2018 FEDUA Dean's Excellence Award for Collaboration

Grants: Secured over $1.1M in funding since 2012, including HMRI grants and NSW Department of Education partnerships for digital tools.