Samantha Wilson-Thain
What is your current role?
In my new role as Director of Student Experience in SLS, I will take the lead on developing a strategic approach to Student Experience, focussed on working with students to create a sense of belonging and fostering an environment where the student voice is central to everything that we do.
What is your background?
I am an academic with over 17 years’ experience in Higher Education, the latter eight of those spent as Academic Subject Lead/Head of Department for Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences. In this role, I oversaw the running of six undergraduate and seven postgraduate programmes.
My discipline is in Musculoskeletal Therapy and my teaching expertise in Injury Rehabilitation, Research Methods and Data Analysis. I have significant experience as an educator but also as a leader in the transformation of learning and teaching. I have a soft spot for quality enhancement, particularly for Assessment and Feedback and have undertaken several projects relating to the improvement of provision in this area.
What are your research interests?
My research interests are centred around student experience and helping students to navigate troublesome knowledge. I am also passionate about EDI and was awarded a teaching fellowship for a project that improved staff and student awareness of EDI and improved the confidence of staff in ensuring inclusive classroom practice.
What are your main interests or passions, outside of work?
My children! I have two small boys (Rupert 4yrs and Ted 2yrs). I also have a love of animals, big and small, though truth be told – I’m a CAT person. Because of these interests we spend a lot of time on the farm and out in nature. I love crafts – drawing, painting crafting…(even decorating) are right up my street. Rupert has just been confirmed as a chicken in the school nativity…Yes, a chicken! Ha. So, my current project is creating a chicken costume. I have a strong faith and enjoy spending time with others, talking about their journey to faith.
November 2023