Work to promote diversity and address inequalities in higher education sees Kingston University academic awarded National Teaching Fellowship

Posted Thursday 8 August 2024

Dr Nigel Page is one of 55 academics from across the UK to receive a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship.

An academic expert from Kingston University has been awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship for his work enhancing and transforming student outcomes and the teaching profession.

Associate Professor of Biosciences Dr Nigel Page is one of 55 academics from across the UK to receive the coveted accolade this year. The National Teaching Fellowship Scheme, run by Advance HE, celebrates and recognises individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and higher education teaching more broadly. It is one of the UK's most sought after awards for excellence in teaching and learning.

Currently Director of Teaching and Learning in the School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Dr Page has held various roles since joining Kingston University in 2006. During that time, he has been pivotal in championing human-centred approaches to education. A strong advocate for diversity, and driving collaboration, he has taken a lead in shaping curriculum design and student support to create opportunities that address inequalities.

He has also been instrumental in creating an inclusive learning environment that enhances students' sense of belonging and nurtures their confidence – particularly focusing on students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds so they can realise their full potential and launch successful careers.

Dr Page has also led several innovative projects, including collaborations with professional bodies and industry partners to embrace diversity and develop role models. His work has addressed confidence gaps in creativity and innovation skills, developed peer support networks, helped define teaching excellence from both academic and student perspectives and led to the launch of initiatives to close degree awarding gaps.

After transitioning into teaching following a successful career in biomedical science research, he has spent periods as course leader for biochemistry and as an employability champion. A Senior Fellow of Advance HE and a Chartered Science Teacher, he has also held influential roles on professional bodies and has been recognised as a finalist in both the National Enterprise Educator Awards and Pearson HE Innovate Awards.

Receiving the accolade highlighted the importance of everyone having equal opportunities to education, Dr Page said. "I have always had an inherent drive to acquire new insights and knowledge, to continually innovate, challenge and develop myself to add value and transform outcomes for my students," he said. "It's crucial we continue to address inequities in degree outcomes and employment prospects, valuing the diverse experiences our students bring to the classroom."

Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost Professor Helen Laville praised Dr Page's commitment to inclusive teaching and learning. "Nigel Page has long championed equal education for all and has made a significant impact to help address the inequalities faced in higher education, both at Kingston University and across the UK," she said. "He is an inspiration to all of us and his dedication really shines through. He is definitely a very worthy recipient of such a prestigious accolade."

The latest fellowship award follows on from two Kingston University staff receiving national recognition for their achievements last year. That announcement saw Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education Dr Neil Williams and Associate Professor of Social Work Yvalia Febrer honoured by Advance HE.

Dr Page will receive his fellowship during a special ceremony in Edinburgh in October.