Sophie Meller

Dr Sophie Meller

Assistant Professor in Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing

What area does your research focus on?

My research focusses on mentoring, of students and colleagues, inter-professional learning, and simulation-based learning. 

What are the other key aspects of your role?

I currently have three main roles within the area of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) at the University of Northumbria. I am the Programme Leader for the Post Graduate Certificate in Education which is a one-year campus-based programme, leading to Qualified Teacher Status. I am also the Lead for ITE, and Ofsted, where I plan strategically for our area in collaboration with colleagues and work with teams to implement initiatives. Before joining Northumbria University as an academic I was a teacher, and leader, in schools within the Gateshead and North Tyneside Local Authorities.   

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work I like cooking, eating, walking, especially on wild and windswept beaches, gothic novels and Yoga. 

What do you think you could particularly offer mentoring support with?

Through my own experiences of mentoring, and being mentored, coupled with my PhD research, I am aware of the complexities of the process. What I could offer is a mentor who appreciates the mentee and understands the need for a holistic approach, knowing that the role can require the skills and attributes of a counsellor, guide, networker and coach (Clutterbuck, 2004).