MA Physical Education and School Sport
The MA Physical Education and School Sport programme will help you to develop the academic knowledge and practical skills that underpin a career in physical education and youth...
Matthew Fleet
Senior Lecturer
Department of Sport and Health
Biography
In 2015, Matthew undertook the role of Senior Lecturer in Education at Southampton Solent University, specialising in physical education, educational leadership, inclusive education practices, curriculum development, and behaviour management. Matthew has an extensive history in education, having previously held middle and senior leadership positions across numerous schools and colleges in the South of England. He has also served as an advisor for international independent schools, guiding educational practices and leadership strategies.
Since joining Solent in 2015 as a Lecturer and becoming a Course Leader in 2016, he has taught in various undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, including education, physical education degrees, and sports coaching. He is recognised for his contributions to programme development, teaching excellence, and curriculum innovation. His dedication to enhancing teaching practices earned him a Higher Education Fellowship, and he has represented the university at various educational forums, advocating for advancements in education. Additionally, Matthew has served as an external examiner for multiple higher education institutions.
Matthew brings extensive experience in examination and assessment, serving as a Senior Examiner for Physical Education with a leading exam board. He has worked as an external verifier, moderator, and lead examiner, standardising assessments and supporting exam systems in the UK and internationally. He has trained new and experienced teachers in the UK, Middle East, and Eastern Asia, fostering development through teacher inset training and consultancy services. Over the last decade, Matthew has consulted for over 200 schools and colleges, providing expert advice on curriculum development, leadership, and pedagogical practices. His expertise has led to the delivery of masterclasses and revision sessions for learners in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia.
In 2023, he completed his Doctorate in Education (EdD) at the University of Winchester. Matthew's thesis examined how teachers of PE across all key stages collectively sought to change the subject, challenging traditional views, and PE practices. The research provided empirical evidence of teachers' varied relationships with PE, addressing professional challenges, pedagogical issues, and the potential for transformative change in the subject.
Recently, Matthew collaborated with the Department of Public Education in the Maldives, offering his expertise in curriculum development and teacher training. By working closely with local educators and government officials, Matthew has helped implement strategies to improve teaching standards and promote inclusive education practices in the Maldives. Furthermore, he has contributed to political manifestos July 2024) focusing on physical and mental health.
Matthew has also presented his research and ideas at international conferences.
His research interests lie in educational leadership, curriculum development, and pedagogical practices, focusing on inclusion, behaviour management, and SEN. He is also deeply involved in qualitative research methodologies and is committed to supporting both new and experienced educators.
As an accomplished author, Matthew has written and contributed to numerous textbooks and educational resources in the field of physical education. His works, including several BTEC Sport textbooks and teacher training guides, have sold over 46,000 copies globally. He is currently the series author for Harper Collins Physical Education resources.
Matthew is actively involved in community and educational outreach, having played a key role in establishing teaching and outreach networks for schools in Portsmouth and Havant. He also serves as the Chairperson for a regional governing board and sits on the academic advisory board of a large academy trust working across the South Coast of England.
Outside of work, Matthew is an avid long-distance athlete, regularly participating in marathons, ultra-marathons, and Ironman triathlons. He enjoys balancing his busy professional life with quality time spent with his wife, two daughters, and son.
Further information
Matthew has over twenty years’ experience as a sports coach working from beginners up to elite professionals including seven years working for a Premier League Football Club. Players that he has coached have gone on to play in the premier league, champion’s league and the world cup. Matthew is a qualified coach in football, rugby, volleyball, cricket, badminton, athletics, hockey, basketball, and is a qualified swim teacher.
Taught courses
BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching and Physical Education
Gain real-world skills, knowledge, and experience, to prepare you for an impactful career in sports coaching and physical education.
BA (Hons) Education
Explore the fascinating area of child development practices, how children and young people learn while gaining practical experience in school placements, and prepare for your future in education.
BA (Hons) Sport Coaching and Physical Education (Top-Up)
Enhance your existing qualifications with essential practical experience, to become a knowledgeable and confident coach for physical education and sport development.
