Professor Dawn Penney is a leading figure in Health and Physical Education research nationally and internationally. Dawn has worked with government agencies, curriculum authorities, schools and sport organisations in collaborative research and evaluation projects addressing policy and curriculum development in health and physical education, and the provision of physical activity and sport for young people.
Much of Dawn’s research explores issues of equity and inclusion in education and sport and ultimately, seeks to enhance learning and participation opportunities for all young people. Her work in community sport challenges sporting agencies, governments, and schools to engage with emerging forms of participation that can support and strengthen community health, wellbeing and engagement. Dawn also has specialist knowledge in assessment policy and practices, with senior secondary physical education a particular focus for assessment research.
Dawn has held senior positions in universities in the UK, New Zealand and Australia. She is currently a Professorial Research Fellow at ECU, and also a Visiting Professor at Cardiff Metropolitan University/Prifysgol Fetropolitan Caerdydd and an Adjunct Professor of Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy at Monash University. Dawn is a passionate and experienced supervisor of Masters and PhD students. Her experience beyond universities includes sport development and coach education. She is an active sport participant and community volunteer.
