University of Bradford staff awarded prestigious teaching fellowship

University of Bradford, Head of Media, Design & Technology Dr Ian Palmer and University of Bradford Reader in Dementia Studies Dr Claire Surr were chosen from over 180 nominations submitted by higher education institutions across England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Each will receive an award of £10,000 which will be used to support their professional development in teaching and learning or aspects of pedagogy.

The scheme, funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England, the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales, and the Department for Employment and Learning in Northern Ireland, and is open to staff whose teaching or support roles enhance the student learning experience at institutions in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Dr Palmer and Dr Surr were nominated by the University of Bradford and their submissions displayed outstanding criteria evidence including: individual excellence, raising the profile of excellence and developing excellence.

University of Bradford Head of Media, Design and Technology Dr Ian Palmer said: “This recognition is a great honour and a proud day for us all at the University of Bradford.

“Linking industry to teaching and the curriculum is incredibly important as it offers University of Bradford graduates greater employability in an incredible competitive market.

“This award strengthens our links with potential employers who want to work with a University who can offer value.

University of Bradford Reader in Dementia Studies Dr Claire Surr said: I'm delighted to have been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in recognition of my work in delivering education for the dementia workforce.

“The Dementia Studies programmes and courses we offer here at the University of Bradford create staff who can change practice and make real improvements to the lives of people living with dementia and their families. This award recognises the excellent learning and teaching opportunities we provide.

Professor Stephanie Marshall, Chief Executive of the HEA, said: “Each year I look forward with great anticipation to the announcement of our new National Teaching Fellows. It is always such an inspirational time as we welcome 55 outstanding teachers in higher education to our growing family of NTFs. This year is no exception.

“While their fields of expertise are many and varied, what they each hold in common is their commitment to learning and teaching, their dedication to their students, and their tenacity in sharing their expertise with others. What also strikes me about our National Teaching Fellows this year is their willingness to learn from others, showing us that learning is an ongoing process from which we can all benefit.

“Our students deserve the best possible learning experience and it is colleagues like those we celebrate today who can make a real difference to their futures. I congratulate all the successful Fellows and wish them every success in their own learning and teaching experiences.”