Ms Mari Jo Valentine

About

I began my working life as a disillusioned art school graduate and entered teaching as a stepping stone to art therapy. However, I realised that I had found my passion in education and following this path has led me to my current role of Director of Teacher Education. 

I originally joined Kingston in 2011 as a member of the Primary Mathematics team. My mission was, and still is, to develop students' mathematical confidence and creativity, exploring personal and teacher identity within this subject. I work with both BA and PG students, in particular at Level 6 and Level 7 in the PG programme and am part of the Mathematics SiG group.

I am committed to ensuring a high-quality student experience and educating the teachers of the future, ensuring that student voice is heard and acted on, with particular focus on Inclusion; supporting students with specific learning needs during placements and working with BAME groups to improve curriculum and placement experiences. 

I work closely with Course Leads across the PGCE and BA courses to strategically develop Partnership within our local community. I am a regional ITTAG chair which allows me to work at a national and regional level, meeting regularly with the DfE and other ITE providers to ensure the success of the Initial Teacher Education courses we offer. I am a member of the UCET management group and the Chartered College of Teaching. 

Prior to joining Kingston I worked for over 15 years in one of the largest Primary schools in London where I held roles as English and Maths Subject Lead working with staff from Reception - Year 6 to develop an inclusive and engaging curriculum.