Dr Emma Sutton is elected as our President for 2027-28 and will work alongside current President Andy Ash as President Elect throughout 2026.
As an artist, researcher and teacher, Emma actively engages with educational research through arts-based, ethnographic and autoethnographic methodologies. Past research has explored the links between critical thinking and creativity with a cross-curricular and interdisciplinary lens, the value of arts education, alternative approaches to pedagogy and practice, and themes of diversity, inclusion and equity.
As a tutor on the iQTS course, supporting with school visits for the Art and Design PGCE, and as ITT, ECT and Apprenticeship Coordinator within the Secondary school in which she is currently Head of Department, supporting and nurturing both personal and professional growth is fundamental.
Post studying as a Trauma and Mental Health informed Practitioner, Emma works with children and young people through offering additional therapeutic and wellbeing support using the arts and play, and has also facilitated community-based projects and workshops.
As an artist Emma's practice is fine art, predominately mixed-media, painting and printmaking, having exhibited in local galleries.
She has delivered various CPD for schools and MATs and organised numerous whole school events which celebrate the arts and culture.
Emma has been a member of the NSEAD since she qualified as an art and design teacher, 18 years ago, and she is excited to play a part in shaping a shared vision with our inspiring, engaged and innovative community of members, supporting and empowering us in the integral work of advocating for art and design education.