Clare Mawson

Profile

With a long history of advocating for marginalised learners in schools, community settings, and higher education, I remain driven by the belief that every person can thrive academically if the conditions are right. As the first in my generation to pursue higher education, my academic journey began with a BA in Social Sciences (Foundation Year), followed by a BA in Social Policy and an MA in Social Research at the University of Leeds. I am currently completing my PhD at York St John University, where my thesis explores the experiences of working-class medical students both within the academy and in clinical settings. My research highlights the unique value these students bring through their personal histories, offering insights for governments to address ongoing challenges within the NHS.

My own experiences of navigating the boundaries to higher education inform my commitment to ensuring that all students can reach their potential. I am passionate about demonstrating how Sociology and Social Policy can be powerful tools for improving the communities we share.

 

Responsibilities

• Community and Partnerships Lead

Research interests

My research interests include; 

• Perceptions and Values of Working-Class Communities
• Social Policy in Action
• Inclusive Learning Communities in Higher Education.
• Intersections of Social Class and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Qualifications

• MA Social Research
• BA Social Policy

Student education

I teach in areas such as Sociology in Action, Social and Public Policy, and Childhood and Youth through the school's undergraduate programs. I supervise dissertation projects at both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) levels.
In addition to teaching, I actively contribute to the student experience by supporting our Academic Student Representatives and developing initiatives that foster an inclusive learning community.