Timperley completed a PhD at the University of Auckland, with a thesis titled The challenge for tomorrow's schools: learning to be responsive.

[1] Timperley has taught at several levels, including in early childhood, primary and secondary schools, and in special education.

[2] Timperley publishes widely, and has written six books, and co-authored a report aimed at teachers Using Evidence in Teaching Practice: Implications for Professional Learning.

[6] Timperley retired in 2014, and is professor emerita of education, learning and professional practice at the University of Auckland.

[9] In the 2010 New Year Honours, Timperley was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to education.