Ruth McFarlane

Director at DWRM (Doing What Really Matters)

Sheffield, England, United Kingdom

About

Experienced Learning and Development Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the prison education field, supporting students in prison to access and succeed in Higher Education. Skilled in Nonprofit Organisations, Management, Child Development, Training, and Looked After Children. Strong education professional with a Master's degree focused in Online and Distance Education from The Open University.

Experience

  • Director at DWRM Consultants
    Apr 2020 - Present · 6 yrs 3 mos

    Higher Education as the engine of prisoner rehabilitation. Facilitating a choice of university courses in prison.

  • Visiting Lecturer at The University of Law
    Jan 2020 - Present · 6 yrs 6 mos

    Teaching LLB and Criminology Students Areas of focus - Youth Justice and Prisons

  • The Open University (4 yrs)
    • Senior Manager, Students in Secure Environments team
      Oct 2017 - Apr 2020 · 2 yrs 7 mos

      Leading the OU prison education team, supporting almost 2000 students doing a degree in prison. Working with OU faculties and tutors to tailor teaching materials and support to meet prison requirements. Managing Ministry of Justice contract for delivery of Higher Education in prisons.

    • Learning and Teaching Development Manager
      May 2016 - Oct 2017 · 1 yr 6 mos

      OU module development. Working with faculty academic staff to design materials for distance learning, with a focus on Accessibility and Universal Design.

  • Education Manager at Homes 2 Inspire
    Aug 2010 - May 2016 · 5 yrs 10 mos

     Responsible for ensuring appropriate education provision for children at a number of children’s homes in the Midlands, carrying out assessments, identifying suitable provision, sourcing funding, providing follow up support, liaising with social workers and other agencies. Achieved significant increase in attendance resulting in excellent progress for children.  Monitoring progress of children, attending reviews, challenging schools to set ambitious targets and supporting children with behavioural difficulties to remain in school.  Reporting regularly to Ofsted on progress of all children. Achieved Good or Outstanding ratings in all homes.  Established bespoke accredited Independent Living qualifications for young people preparing to leave care in response to demand from social workers and contributed to improved outcomes.  Coaching and managing new staff