Roger McDonald

Roger McDonald is an Associate Professor of Primary Education (Literacy) in the School of Education at the University of Greenwich, serving as Programme Leader for School Based Primary PGCEs. He currently holds the presidency of the United Kingdom Literacy Association (UKLA) and participates in key research initiatives including the ESRC-funded project Research Mobilities in Primary Literacy Education and the Open University's Picture Fiction project.

His academic credentials include a BA Hons Joint Honours degree in Geography and Education and an MA in Literacy and Learning, both from Canterbury Christ Church University.

McDonald's research centers on cultivating curiosity and lifelong learning through innovative literacy approaches. He investigates how picture books, drama techniques, and emotional engagement transform teaching practices, with particular focus on developing reading-for-pleasure pedagogies that resonate across age groups. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with classroom applications to enhance children's imaginative responses to texts.

He actively mentors teachers and lecturers in literacy pedagogy and collaborates with the Open University to establish national student ambassador networks. Prior to academia, McDonald spent 16 years as a primary school teacher and deputy head teacher in Kent and Medway schools, holding a National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

His professional journey includes associate tutoring at Canterbury Christ Church University (2010-2012) before joining the University of Greenwich in 2012, building on extensive classroom experience at Lordswood Junior School (1997-2014) and Saxon Way Primary School (2004-2012).