Mari Jo Valentine

As Associate Professor in the Department of Education at Kingston University, my own professional journey reflects Kingston University’s commitment to unlocking transformative opportunities for students. My teaching philosophy embodies Kingston’s Future Skills programme, and centres on developing confidence and creativity in mathematics and art; instilling not only subject and pedagogical knowledge, but also vital skills such as confidence, self-awareness, creative problem solving, adaptability, and collaboration, to support employment.

Since joining Kingston in 2011, I have championed high-quality learning experiences that cater to Kingston’s richly diverse student community – teaching and inspiring future educators from all backgrounds and ensuring student voice is both heard and acted on.

Kingston University’s ambition and innovation drive is reflected in my proactive work developing Knowledge Exchange initiatives, driven by my commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, which will help to drive positive impact and economic benefits for the Department and partners. Current projects include developing leadership opportunities for Black female teachers, improving safeguarding training and championing neurodiversity through innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

In my role as Mentor Lead, I am guided by Kingston’s progressive model of education, working with school-based mentors to facilitate the development of resilience, problem solving, self-awareness, collaboration and adaptability for graduates across our BA (Hons) and PGCE programmes. I work closely with Kingston Lead Mentors to improve the student and mentor experience, to ensure all trainees can succeed and gain successful employment.

I embody Kingston University’s commitment to community partnerships. Through my work as founder and chair of the Pan London Initial Teacher Education Network, I ensure Kingston works closely with other London Based Teacher Education providers to develop ambitious practice, Knowledge Exchange and research.  

As a governor at an Outstanding partner school, I fully understand the importance of developing our future skills in our trainee teachers, and the value of these for employers. I am an active member of Universities’ Council for the Education of Teachers (UCET) and a member of the Chartered College of Teaching, NCETM, AccessArt and the NSEAD.

• BA (Hons) Fine Art
• PGCE Primary (QTS)
• MA in Education
• SFHEA
• NPQLTD