George Kinkead

Biography

George joined the PhD programme in Applied Public Policy in October 2023. He is driven by uncovering what works in education and sustainability, applying evidence-based approaches in education, psychology and behavioural science to improve equity in educational systems. His research has a focus on social influences and social capital, notably, the network effects and dynamics of group messaging platforms. His doctoral research uses randomised controlled trials to test behaviourally informed interventions aimed at improving outcomes for college and university students.

After completing his undergraduate degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Manchester (2009-2012), he trained as a mathematics teacher on the Teach First program. Before joining KCL, he worked as Head of department and Deputy Head of Sixth Form in schools in London and the Southwest. He holds an MSc in Education and Leadership from the University of Bristol (2015-16) and an MRes in Sustainable futures from the University of Bath (2020-22).

Research interests:

• Applications of Behavioural Science to Educational Interventions
• Mathematics Education and Public Policy
• Education for sustainable development
• Peer to peer influences in education
• Social identity, Social capital and Belonging
• Sustainability and Public Policy