Jennie Muscart

For the past 17 years, I have had the privilege of teaching within HMP Liverpool, working with men aged 18 and over. This unique environment has not only challenged me as an educator but also deepened my passion for using education as a transformative tool to empower individuals, rebuild lives, and foster personal growth. My work has primarily focused on supporting individuals with a range of behavioural challenges, learning difficulties, and disabilities, while also addressing broader needs through enrichment projects and family engagement initiatives.

My academic foundation—a BA Combined Honours Degree in Fine Art, Psychology, and Sociology—has been instrumental in shaping my teaching philosophy. This multidisciplinary background enables me to approach education holistically, blending creativity with an understanding of human behaviour and societal influences. Art, in particular, has been a powerful medium for rehabilitation, offering learners a means to express themselves, process emotions, and build confidence. My pursuit of a PGCE in Post-16 Education allowed me to further refine my skills in working with adult learners in complex and challenging circumstances.

Throughout my career, I have taken on a variety of leadership roles, including Curriculum Manager and Hub Manager, overseeing Art, Open University (OU) therapeutic learning, Student Support programs, and enrichment projects. In these roles, I have been responsible for designing, implementing, and managing innovative and inclusive curricula that meet the needs of diverse learners. My work has extended beyond the classroom, as I have sought to create holistic educational experiences that address not only academic and vocational goals but also the emotional and social needs of my students.

Enrichment projects have been a cornerstone of my work, providing learners with opportunities to engage in activities that inspire creativity, build skills, and foster a sense of community. These projects have ranged from art exhibitions and collaborative workshops to initiatives that link education with real-world applications, helping students see the value and relevance of their learning. Such projects have been instrumental in boosting learners' self-esteem, promoting a sense of achievement, and encouraging positive behavioural change.

As a Hub Manager, I have overseen the integration of various educational services, ensuring that students have access to cohesive and supportive learning environments. This role has required close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including student support services and external partners, to provide tailored interventions that address individual barriers to learning. My ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on teaching has allowed me to create programs that are both effective and impactful.

Throughout my career, I have witnessed the profound impact that education can have in transforming lives. Many of my students enter the classroom with limited confidence, histories of disengagement from education, and significant barriers to learning. Watching them progress—academically, personally, and emotionally—has been the most rewarding part of my work. I firmly believe that education is not only a means to acquire knowledge but also a tool for rehabilitation, self-reflection, and hope.

My experience has taught me the importance of adaptability, empathy, and innovation in teaching. Whether leading therapeutic workshops, managing enrichment projects, or collaborating with families, I strive to create a safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and supported. My goal has always been to inspire change, unlock potential, and empower individuals to envision and work toward a brighter future.

My academic foundation—a BA Combined Honours Degree in Fine Art, Psychology, and Sociology—has been instrumental in shaping my teaching philosophy. This multidisciplinary background enables me to approach education holistically, blending creativity with an understanding of human behaviour and societal influences. Art, in particular, has been a powerful medium for rehabilitation, offering learners a means to express themselves, process emotions, and build confidence. My pursuit of a PGCE in Post-16 Education allowed me to further refine my skills in working with adult learners in complex and challenging circumstances.