Facilitating and empowering young people as researcher
My research areas focus on young people and in particular how, through research collaboration, they can contribute to their own and to their peer’s personal development. This unique research methodology was first used in a school setting to investigate the efficacy of a whole school mental health strategy. It was about young people researching with other young people enabling them to contribute to school strategy.
Young researchers in schools: A participative action research study into the efficacy of a whole school mental health strategy
From April to June 2021, England saw a 134% increase in mental health service referrals for young people. The study highlights two main findings: successful school mental health strategies depend on trustful relationships between staff and students, and the use of youth participative dialogic action research (YPDAR) not only benefits the students by fostering close relationships, enhancing socio-emotional skills, and building confidence and empowerment but also contributes to a positive shift in the school's character. This approach emphasizes a power shift towards the young people, strengthening trust and relationships within the school community.
Supporting young people through research
I am a postdoctoral participative researcher who works mostly with young people and mostly in the context of schools. I am an honorary researcher with the University of Cumbria and am working with colleagues across NE England and N Cumbria to develop adolescent mental health research. I am also the Lead Education Advisor for the NIHR health research in schools group for the North East and North Cumbria. As a member of the coordinating committee for the Action Research Network of the Americas (ARNA), I act as the liaison between ARNA and the Collaborative Action Research Network (CARN). I am also an active member of ARNA’s Youth Participatory Action Research Community which is working on projects in both the USA and Europe. This groups aims are to develop a global and intergenerational community promoting research collaborations between young people and adults.
With over 35 years of experience as a UK teacher focusing on pastoral and welfare aspects in a large secondary school
After many years working in the pastoral sector of schools Dave transitioned to research, specifically in Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) within schools. Having developed and implemented a whole school mental health strategy he left teaching to research how effective it was. This work is now focussing on how young people can become co-researchers and contribute to school improvement. Leading an Emerging Minds Special Interest Group, Dave also explored the necessities for young people to manage their mental health and the societal support required for them to do so. He is a keen fellrunner with Tino the dog his faithful and tireless companion. Dave is now also a proud grandpa to the adorable Arthur and Phoebe.
My research
Research Collaborating With Young People
