Tell us a little about yourself
I joined the University of Cumbria in 2011, initially delivering the investigative element of Policing degrees. I continue to be involved in our policing provision as Principal Lecturer for the School of Justice which encompasses Policing, Criminology, Law and Security programmes.
What’s your industry background
I am immensely proud of my 32 year policing experience. Predominantly investigative and intelligence based, ranging from CID to Special Branch.
My background informs my teaching, helping me to explain how events relate to theory. An approach which has led to regular TV and radio appearances commenting on contemporary events.
Can you tell us about your research?
I concentrate my research on linking my academic position to my investigative experience. I published a Criminal Investigation text book in 2021.
The digital influence on our world fascinates me, I have delivered a number of public lectures on themes of fake news and how we can judge the credibility of digital sources.
What might surprise people to learn about you?
I use all the football skills I have experienced as a lifelong Leeds United supporter to my coaching role with a junior football team in my local league.
What modules do you teach?
I teach across a range of modules on all our justice-based courses, I am predominantly involved with our security, Intelligence and Investigative Practice course which I created and launched in 2019. I enjoy working with students as they makes sense of how we react to crime and worldwide security events. The conversations this leads to are amongst the most enjoyable parts of my working days.
What’s your favourite thing about teaching at Cumbria?
Getting to know my students as individuals being part of their journey from newly arrived to graduation and continuing to hear of their success in their chosen careers.
What makes your course different?
A number of our courses are involved in the annual Major Incident experience which sees a variety of students and professionals being involved in a simulated exercise spanning two days. Whilst this is the jewel in the crown of our real world simulations there are many more smaller scale events which feature in our programmes.
What advice would you give to students considering studying on this course?
If you want to test your knowledge and link your studies to real world events our programmes will allow you to prepare for your future careers in a supportive environment which recognises real world challenges to your professional practice
Visit our Security, Intelligence and Investigative Practice course to find out more.