Collaboratory Researcher Profiles
Project Title: Understanding the factors that influence children’s financial literacy skills in Coalville
What were you doing before starting this PhD?
Before starting my PhD, I completed an MSc in Education Sciences, a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, a Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools, and a Diploma in Retail and Marketing Leadership. Professionally, I worked as a learning support and SEND assistant in Leicestershire schools, a retail and marketing assistant manager, and a manager in an adult care setting. Alongside this, I continue to work as a family health and well-being mentor at a community charity and as a learning and well-being officer at the Saturday Polish School. I also worked as a Psycholinguistics Research Assistant at De Montfort University.
What motivated you to apply for this specific PhD project?
I was motivated to apply for this specific PhD because of its strong focus on community development, well-being, sustainability, and interdisciplinary, impact-driven research. These priorities closely relate to my academic background and professional values. Throughout my work in psychology, education, social care, and retail, I have consistently focused on community-based practice, supporting individuals, children, families, and schools across socioeconomically diverse backgrounds in Leicestershire. These experiences have taught me that meaningful, lasting change requires collaboration with wider communities rather than research conducted in isolation. What particularly attracted me to this project is its co-production model, which brings together researchers, individuals, and local stakeholders to design practical, context-responsive interventions. This approach reflects my commitment to inclusive, participatory research that translates evidence into real-world outcomes, especially in addressing educational inequities and supporting children’s development.
What difference do you hope to make in Leicester through this research?
Through this research, I hope to make a practical and lasting difference to communities not only in Leicestershire but across the wider region by helping to reduce early educational and financial inequities. I hope this research will translate into real-world support that improves learning outcomes, empowers families, and contributes to healthier, more aware local communities.
What do you hope to be doing in 5 years’ time?
In five year’s time, I would like to maintain and grow my passion for working with people and for people research, particularly with and for those in need. I would also like to develop my teaching skills so I can perhaps share my time between academia and industry, enabling theory to be developed from practice and vice versa. As a lifelong learner, I will likely continue to pursue additional training and courses enthusiastically.