As an early career researcher, Beth's research interests continue to evolve across various domains, including teacher education and development, curriculum design, student learning, and pedagogical principles. Currently, her primary focus lies within the higher education sector, where she is particularly interested in exploring data-driven metrics that inform student retention and continuation within the undergraduate programmes she manages. Additionally, Beth has a strong passion for researching and evaluating professional development for practitioners in teaching, learning, and coach development, aiming to enhance evidence-based practices that support educators at all stages of their careers. Her research seeks to generate meaningful insights that improve both staff and student experiences, ultimately contributing to institutional development while supporting her own professional growth. Through this work, Beth aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based strategies drive positive change in higher education and professional learning environments.

Beth Smith is a Lecturer in Physical Education and School Sport at Hartpury University and joined in November 2020. She is the Programme Manager for the FdSc (Hons) Sport Performance and Coaching and the BSc (Hons) Sport Performance (Top-Up) programmes, and has recently undergone curriculum development to create a new BSc (Hons) Sports Performance. In addition to her leadership responsibilities, Beth contributes to teaching across the BSc (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport, BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching, and FdSc (Hons) Sport Performance and Coaching programmes.

Beth achieved Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy (HEA) in April 2022 and was awarded Senior Fellow status in December 2024, recognising her commitment to high-quality teaching, learning, and academic leadership within higher education.

• England Football Learning (Formally known as the Football Association) - Licensed Coach
• FA Coach Mentor - Women and Girls (Regional)
• UEFA C Coach Developer (Regional)
• FA Quality Developer (National)

• FE Lecturer in Sport, West Kent College. August 2019 - November 2020
• The FA, Coach Mentor (Devon FA, Kent FA)

What makes professional teacher development effective? An international based systemised review focusing on university settings.