BA (Hons) PGCE Drama Specialist Grad.Dip Playwork

Karen lectures part time at The University of Gloucestershire in the Department of Drama, Performing Arts & Play, where she has also written many CPD endorsed training courses and qualifications. She has worked in play & playwork for over 20 years both as a practitioner and trainer/assessor. As a freelance trainer and facilitator Karen delivers Scrapstore Playpods in schools helping to improve playtimes and give children a wide range of play opportunities that enhances skills, friendships, learning and encourages inclusion.

She delivers training and has written several courses specifically for Play Torbay, including ‘Young Volunteers in Playwork’ and ‘Playing Creatively’. She managed an Adventure Playground for Disabled children and has also supported an Out of School Club for children with Autism. Karen is also involved in European research projects around play and drama in education.

She performs regularly with Box of Frogs, Birmingham’s Comedy Improvisation Group, as well as The Ministry of Improv and she is on the steering group of the Birmingham Improv Festival. With a background in professional theatre and the performing arts there is always an element of playing in her workshops!