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 now hold my current role as Professional Lead for Teacher Education Partnerships. 

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 also teach Art to Primary students from Level 4 - Level 7. 

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 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 Assembly and the Chartered College of Teaching. I also co-chair the Pan London Initial Teacher Education Network, working with other London teacher training providers to ensure parity and equity for partner schools with regards to DfE mentor training requirements.  

Academic responsibilities

Associate Professor

Qualifications

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