James started working with the CforLP team in 2018 on their ‘ProjX’ work experience programmes and helped the Centre evolve this initiative, and the ‘Elements’ programme, through the difficult lock-down periods. His involvement with the Centre became more prominent as he developed workshops and activities for the Primary Business Partnership, and now he expands his role as an associate helping others to enhance the primary curriculum.

James specialises in mathematics education and is an advocate for the wider engagement and participation of the subject by promoting the applied, abstract and creative nature of the field. James’ undergraduate studies were in engineering before qualifying to teach secondary mathematics in Scotland.

After teaching in West Cumbria for ten years James undertook an MA in educational research and set up his own consultancy firm  – Red Pike Education – to support educational initiatives in West Cumbria. As well as acting as an associate for CforLP, he currently holds positions at UCLan as lecturer of mathematics and scientific communication; and is a senior examiner at AQA for level 3 mathematics. James still actively teaches at centres in Workington and Carlisle for learners with special educational needs.

Outside of science and education, James has a passion for running in the Cumbrian fells and attempting to play acoustic guitar.

James’ Leadership Top Tip:

“Problem solving is not supposed to be easy – enjoy the challenge and be creative, the wild ideas often work best”