James Alsop

About

Dr James Alsop is an educator, researcher and Shakespeare scholar who has taught GCSE, A Level, and IB English for ten years.

James graduated with a BA (First Class) in English from the University of Exeter, where he also completed his MA in Shakespeare Studies (Distinction) and his PhD. His doctoral thesis examined occurrences of “living death” — a state that exists between life and death — in early modern English drama.

James has taught GCSE English Language and Literature, A Level English Literature, and A Level Media Studies. He has also taught IB English at both Standard and Higher Levels, and has supervised several Extended Essays.

Driven to provide the best quality pedagogical support to students across the UK, he specialises in making Shakespearean drama accessible and engaging to students of all ages and abilities. He has delivered lectures for teachers and students on a whole host of topics including the use of drama to promote student wellbeing in schools and universities.

As a lifelong learner with a passion for pastoral care in schools, James has completed courses on LGBTQ+ inclusivity and Mental Health First Aid.

James has taught at, and provided content for, BA and MA English courses at the University of Exeter and the University of Dundee. An expert in Higher Education application requirements and procedures, including the writing of personal statements, he has supported the successful university applications of hundreds of students — and he is immensely proud of their achievements! James has also coached and supervised several Bar Mock Trial teams and entrants into national debating competitions.

James’ theatrical and pedagogical research has been published in several prestigious academic journals, and he has presented papers on all things Shakespearean at schools and conferences across the UK. He is also the author of Living Death in Early Modern Drama.

He runs his own blog and regularly posts content about education-related topics and literature for students, trainee teachers, and early career educators.

James' top revision tip: “The best way to test your recall and improve your subject confidence is by teaching somebody else! Studying with friends is a great opportunity to test one another and work out any gaps in your knowledge!”