Dr Alan Thomson

Co-Opted Governor

After sixteen years teaching in Merseyside secondary schools, I made the move to work in Higher Education. Since 2007, I have been a Senior Lecturer in three different universities working with prospective teachers and undertaking educational research. In my current role at the University of Central Lancashire, I teach educational sociology and theories of learning and teaching. My current research focuses upon the lives of teachers and the micropolitical interactions and interrelationships evident in school environments.

Away from education, I am a keen mountain biker and skier. After a long involvement in professional (and international) football, I ‘switched allegiances’ a number of years ago to rugby league where I continue to hold a season ticket at Widnes Vikings. As a Scottish native and with most of my family hailing from the Isle of Lewis, I am passionate about Scottish Gaelic culture, and in particular the music and language.

Both my children benefitted from and enjoyed the array of opportunities and experiences they had in their time as pupils of Wade Deacon. As a governor, I aim to continue supporting (and challenging) the leadership team, teachers and support staff to ensure that all pupils can continue to enjoy and benefit from their time at Wade Deacon High School.