Clare Nicola Ridout Portrait

Miss Clare Ridout

Senior Lecturer

Clare.Ridout@port.ac.uk

Biography

I am a Chartered Architect with over two decades of experience in the profession.  During my career, I have worked in both private and public practices, specialising in the education sector, particularly in special educational needs and early years.  I was also a member of the 1024ºË¹¤³§ Local Authority Design Review Panel.  Since qualifying in 1998, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with designing complex but nurturing spaces.  

In 2021, I transitioned to a full-time position at the School of Architecture, prior to this, I served as a sessional teaching fellow for four years, engaging with students in the BA2 and BA3 studios and previously to this as a guest reviewer across the school.

My approach to the study of architecture focuses on encouraging students to use empathy and curiosity to reflect on the needs of their clients and the wider community, so developing responsive and engaging designs.  Students are encouraged to find and present their own unique voice in the context of a supportive and nurturing studio environment as well as engage with external ‘clients’.  My work with the Part 3 team provides the professional practice tools that support this goal.

Through my teaching, I aim to instil a passion for architecture, an understanding of the social impact it carries, and the importance of creating inclusive and inspiring spaces. 

Research interests

Research Area:  Community Engagement, Empathy & Curiosity in Design, in collaboration with School of Environment, Geography and Geosciences

Pedagogic Research:  Practice supported and collaborative learning