Craig Newton

Craig Newton is a lecturer in Sports Coaching and Physical Education with over a decade of applied teaching experience in both primary and secondary school settings. His academic journey began with a Sports degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, followed by a PGCE in Secondary Physical Education at Newman University College. He later advanced his expertise by completing a Master's in Teaching and Learning at Worcester University.

Currently, Craig leads three core modules on the Sports Coaching and PE degree at Birmingham City University. He is deeply engaged in bridging the gap between higher education and practical application, actively collaborating with schools in the Birmingham area to provide students with hands-on coaching experience. His commitment to education extends beyond the University, as he regularly attends conferences and offers consultancy support to schools.

Craig’s passion for physical activity is not only central to his teaching but also the foundation of his PhD research, which explores the use of physical activity trackers to enhance participation and engagement. Alongside his academic role, he has five years of experience as a community coach and swimming teacher, further enriching his practical knowledge of sports education.

As a former elite swimmer, Craig represented Great Britain on the international stage, achieving a career highlight by winning gold at the Junior European Championships in 2003. His first hand experience as a high-performance athlete informs his teaching, allowing him to inspire the next generation of sports professionals with both theoretical knowledge and real-world insights.