Mr Shawn Appleyard

I am a Lecturer in Computing and Communications at The Open University, where I specialise in Networking and Cyber Security and contribute to the development and delivery of apprenticeship modules from Level 4 to Level 6 in Digital Technology Solutions. My teaching focuses on helping apprentices build strong technical foundations while developing the confidence and professional behaviours expected in industry. I take a reflective and inclusive approach to education, aiming to make complex concepts accessible and meaningful for all learners.

My expertise includes Cisco networking, penetration testing, ethical hacking, and OSINT, supported by experience in both physical and virtual environments. Within my role, I work on module production and curriculum design, and I actively engage with industry partners to ensure that the content we create remains relevant and aligned with current professional practice.

I also maintain an active interest in research relating to networking, generative AI, and cloud technologies. My research activity informs my teaching and helps me stay engaged with emerging developments in the field, although I keep the specifics of my work deliberately concise and high level.

A key part of my professional identity is my commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and I embed these principles across all aspects of my practice. I continue to develop my skills through ongoing professional development, including Cisco certifications, ISO/IEC standards training, and CPD in areas such as AI, equality and diversity, and digital content creation.

My academic background includes a BSc (Hons) in Applied Computing (Cyber), an FdSc in Networking and Cyber Security, and a PGCE specialising in Post-16 Computing. I am driven by helping apprentices grow in capability and confidence, and I am dedicated to creating learning experiences that reflect the evolving demands of the digital and cyber sectors.