Tara-Ashley McAvoy
Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation
2024
My favourite part of the role is guiding my students through the more practical aspects of Forensic Science, especially latent fingerprint collection and evidence handling. I enjoy watching them develop their confidence and skills in these techniques
Tara-Ashley joined Lancaster & Morecambe College in July 2024 as a lecturer in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation and teaches on the Forensic Science Level 3 course. With a BSc in Forensic Science and an MSc on the horizon in 2025, she brings both academic expertise and a real-world insight to her teaching. She is also an affiliated member of The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, actively engaging with the latest developments in the field through webinars, conferences, and professional networks.
Driven by a deep passion for the subject, Tara-Ashley was inspired to take on her role at LMC to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with the next generation of forensic investigators. Her teaching style is hands-on and immersive, designed to bring the science of crime-solving to life.
“My favourite part of the role is guiding my students through the more practical aspects of Forensic Science, especially latent fingerprint collection and evidence handling. I enjoy watching them develop their confidence and skills in these techniques.”
Outside the classroom, Tara-Ashley is currently working on her MSc thesis, which explores advanced techniques in forensic science and criminal investigation. Her research is due to be published soon and reflects her commitment to staying at the cutting edge of the discipline.
She believes in making Forensic Science accessible, exciting, and relevant to real-world scenarios. Her lessons often incorporate simulated crime scenes, evidence analysis, and investigative techniques that give her students a taste of what it’s like to work in the field.
“My teaching is all about making Forensics real, practical, and exciting. So if you're curious about crime scenes, love solving puzzles, or just want to dive into the unknown, then this is the course for you!”
Tara-Ashley’s dedication to her students and her subject makes her a valued member of the LMC teaching team, inspiring learners to pursue careers in forensic science, law enforcement, and beyond.
YOUR TUTOR(S)
It’s really difficult to state just one thing I love about working at Lancaster & Morecambe College because there are so many! I really wanted to work here because the college has a fantastic reputation. I love introducing new ways of working and keeping up with relevant trends to improve the course, and I really enjoy the supportive environment that we create for our students.
Teaching is my favourite part of the role, I love being able to help people reach that lightbulb moment in class! I also enjoy being able to inspire the next generation of Residential workers.
My favourite part of my job is helping people achieve their GCSE English, a key qualification which will open doors for them in the future.
The course gives people experiences of business in many forms which can be used in a huge variety of possible future careers – past students have gone on to work in sectors as diverse as fashion, charities, social media, nuclear energy, defence manufacturing and the public sector.
My favourite aspect of my role is seeing learners who struggle to believe in themselves when they first begin their journey at LMC, but eventually realise that they are very capable. It is a lightbulb moment when they realise they can be or do anything they want to. Learners walk through our gates unsure of themselves and sometimes struggle to believe in their abilities, but by the end of their journey they walk out of LMC confident and ready to take on the world.
Be prepared to work hard and be challenged. The more you put in, the more you will get out of the course. It's a rewarding experience as you can clearly see your skills develop. There is also a great demand for skilled plasterers and the potential for good earnings, so why not give it a go?
ALUMNI
Olivia Hammond
Emma Sophie Wright
Joel Drewery
Jennifer Keane
Alfie Garner
Holly Eva Rouse
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