Hi, I’m Beth Hallissey, a GDC registered Dental Nurse, educator, and lifelong learner with a passion for bringing creativity, compassion, and innovation into every corner of the teaching and learning experience. I currently work as a Dental Care Professional Teaching Fellow at the University of Portsmouth Dental Academy, where I lead on teaching and assessment, as well as supporting students as a personal tutor.

My teaching covers a wide range of clinical and professional topics, including Cross Infection and Decontamination, Medical Emergencies, Charting, and GDC Standards. I’m also proud to coordinate the "Fundamentals of Dental Nursing Practice" and “Foundations of Dental Nursing Practice” modules, which allows me to build meaningful, scaffolded learning experiences for our students.

Until recently, I also worked as a Learning Designer within CADI (Centre for Academic Development and Innovation) where I led the University’s AI initiatives. I designed and delivered sessions across all faculties, leading curriculum and assessment redesigns. Although I’ve since returned to focus on my role as a clinical educator, my love for teaching design and digital pedagogy is very much still part of everything I do.

I also spent a significant period working with the University of Portsmouth eLearn team as an Online Course Developer in conjunction with my teaching role. I provided technical support and advice on best practices in learning technology across the institution, working with Moodle and other digital tools, troubleshooting queries from staff and students and developing resources to enhance digital learning environments.

Before moving into teaching, I worked in several roles that really shaped my career at Plymouth University, as a Simulated Dental Learning Environment Dental Nurse and later as Senior Technician for Dentistry. These experiences gave me hands-on insight into clinical environments and simulation-based education. I’ve also worked with the British Antarctic Survey, NHS England, Masters programmes and CPD courses. I was also an examiner for the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses, assessing OSCE assessments across the UK. I also completed the Herschel Programme foe Women in Technical Leadership, and wrote the winning nomination for the Papin Prize for contribution to teaching in 2021.

I like to actively explore ways to enhance learning through technology and creative assessment. This includes designing and creating my own teaching resources. I enjoy 3D printing, and utilise the technology to create standardised, cost-effective teaching tools. I am also interested in Haptic technology and have created my own exercises using both Virteasy and Simtocare simulators.

I’ve delivered workshops across the University on embedding AI into teaching and assessment; these have been incredibly popular, and I have also spoken about various AI topics at UCL, Chichester University and the British Psychological Society.

What drives me is the belief that learning should be accessible, engaging, and fun. I’ve experienced how transformative education can be, not just in the classroom, but personally. I am neurodiverse and these experiences have shaped how I teach, mentor, and support others. They’ve taught me the importance of empathy, flexibility, and seeing each student as a whole person, not just a learner.

I’m also deeply committed to equality and outreach. As a personal tutor, I regularly support students applying to further education or navigating personal challenges. I’ve previously chaired an LGBT+ Staff Network, led training on discrimination and intersectionality, I have been a Guest Speaker for the Springboard Women’s Development Programme and I was recognised by the Mayor of Plymouth for my contributions to community inclusion.

I’m currently working towards a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education and D2 Fellowship. I have long term goals of reaching D3 and contributing to teaching and learning strategy at a senior level.

Outside of work, I’m an unapologetic nerd, I love gaming, films, and exploring how play and creativity can enhance education. I’m always experimenting with new ideas and trying to find ways to make learning not just informative, but joyful.

Thanks for taking the time to get to know a bit more about me, and if you ever want to chat about simulation, inclusive teaching, or the future of dental education, I’d be happy to sink my teeth into it.