Mrs Claire Mckellow
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education
- Department of Midwifery
- School of Education, Midwifery and Social Work
- Kingston Hill
Head of Department / Associate Professor in Midwifery
About
I am an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Midwifery at Kingston University London, where I lead the development and delivery of high-quality midwifery education that prepares future practitioners to meet the evolving needs of healthcare. I joined the university in 2016 as a Senior Lecturer (and alumna), bringing with me extensive clinical and leadership experience from the NHS. I have Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA), recognition for my sustained leadership in teaching, curriculum development, and the professional development of colleagues.
As Head of the Midwifery Department at a TEF Gold-rated institution, I champion innovative pedagogical approaches and foster a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous improvement across our midwifery programmes. Central to this is the integration of Kingston University’s Future Skills framework, ensuring our graduates are equipped with the attributes most valued by employers in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. I lead on strategic planning and operational delivery, working in close collaboration with senior leaders, academic teams, and external partners to ensure our programmes remain innovative, inclusive, and responsive to the changing needs of students and the wider education sector.
Currently, I am undertaking a Doctor of Education with a specialist interest in gamification techniques in midwifery education an area that reflects Kingston University’s commitment to innovation and progressive models of learning. My research explores how game-based strategies can enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making—aligning with Kingston University’s Future Skills agenda and its award-winning Town House Strategy.
Linking both my clinical and academic experience as a HEI-based Professional Midwifery Advocate (PMA), I am committed to supporting both students and staff through mentorship, advocacy, and professional development. I am an active member of the PMA Steering Group, contributing to the development of a National Operational Strategy for the implementation of the A-EQUIP model. I also participate in the PMA South England network, facilitating national conversations around learning, teaching, and emerging themes in clinical practice and education.
In addition to my academic and leadership roles, I have been honoured to serve as an expert reviewer for the Donna Ockenden Nottingham review—an opportunity that reflects my ongoing commitment to improving maternity services and promoting safe, evidence-based care.
Qualifications
- SEDA Award; Introduction to Learning & Teaching
- Professional Midwifery Advocate (Bridging Course)
- Midwives Examination of the Newborn
- BSc(Hons), Midwifery, Kingston University
- Mentorship for Contemporary Practice
- MA, Health Studies, Brighton University
- BSc (Hons), Adult Nursing, Kingston University
- Undertaking Doctorate of Education