After completing an undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology at Durham University, Nicola initially worked in administration in a mental health setting and then spent four years as an A-Level Psychology teacher. Following a growing involvement in the sport of archery as a coach and volunteer on a national project into participation levels, she brought together her interests in psychology and physical activity through study at Northumbria University: first by completing the MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology programme, and then by undertaking her PhD into the role of physical activity in primary school education. She is now an Assistant Professor in sport and exercise psychology, with research interests in higher education pedagogy and school-based physical activity, as well qualitative research in the field of sport and exercise more generally.

Nicola has conducted research into the outcomes of physical activity participation for primary school children, particularly in relation to their cognition and wellbeing, and using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. She is interested in how physical activity can be integrated in practical and sustainable ways into people’s lives, accounting for barriers and competing priorities. She has also explored via a series of collaborative research projects a range of issues related to teaching and learning in higher education, including online delivery and student belonging.