Meet the colleague: Rachel Johns

Rachel Johns, Education Developer for Inclusive Education Project, tells us about her role and the projects she’s working on at the Learning and Teaching Academy.

Tell us about your career history: 

I have always been passionate about learning and teaching! 

My career spans over 20 years of working within compulsory education. I held various roles such as classroom practitioner, and senior leader, and I have worked with the Welsh Government and Arts Council Wales to develop curriculum resources for the primary sector.  

Over the years I have been fortunate enough to partner with colleagues and universities from other countries such as Norway, Bratislava, Germany, and Bangladesh. A highlight of my career was spending a week in Bangladesh visiting different educational contexts and developing lasting links with a school in Bangladesh. it is these experiences and serving a culturally diverse community of Cardiff that began my journey of inclusive practice and providing equity for all students so they can reach their potential.  

What does your role involve and how long have you been in the role? 

I feel very lucky to be working at Cardiff University in my new role!  

I joined the Learning and Teaching Academy in September 2023 as an Education Developer for the Inclusive Education Project. I aim to support the planning and delivery of institution-wide activities as part of the inclusive education project. I enjoy nothing more than working alongside staff to guide and support the development and enhancement of inclusive practice. 

 My typical day can range from: 

• Creating resources for the educational development toolkit. 
• Delivering open CPD on the inclusive education framework. 
• Providing bespoke CPD or tailored support to colleges and schools. 
• Working with the wider university to develop and embed inclusive practice.   

What projects/tasks are you currently working on within your role? 

Currently, I am working with colleagues and students on the application for the Race Equality Charter Mark, alongside developing resources for schools to support their inclusive education journeys. Developing inclusive education toolkit pages has been a highlight of my work recently and sharing the inclusive education framework widely across the institution.  

What do you do in your spare time? 

I love nothing more than spending time with my family, reading and exploring new places!!