Professor Jane Taylor and Dr Jennie Gilbert are the first members of staff in the Lancaster Environment Centre to become Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). Jane, who teaches biology and ecology, and Jennie, who teaches Earth science, environmental science and physical geography, join a growing network of over 30 colleagues across Lancaster University who hold SFHEA status.

The Higher Education Academy (HEA) is a UK-based organisation responsible for enhancing teaching and supporting learning. It works with governments, universities and other higher education providers to achieve change in learning and teaching. The aim is to improve the experience that students have while they are studying, and support and develop those who teach them.

The HEA has worked with universities to develop the UK Professional Standards Framework for teaching and supporting learning in higher education (UKPSF). This is the backbone of the HEA’s accreditation and recognition schemes, and this helps to drive improvements in learning and teaching in higher education.

Dr Gilbert said: “I am delighted to have received this recognition.  Working through my application has crystallised my teaching practice and student engagement philosophies; I can now say with conviction that these orbit around encouragement, practice-based learning, and inclusivity.  It has also enabled me to critically review my recent roles in teaching leadership, and to come to the realisation that I love teaching fieldwork out-of-doors.

“I wish to thank staff in the Department of Organisation and Educational Development at Lancaster University for helping me to submit my written portfolio.

Dr Taylor said: “I am really pleased that my teaching has been recognised with this award. As Deputy Director of the Environment Centre, I am however just one of the very many dedicated staff in the department who are highly committed to delivering the very best student-centred teaching to all our students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, both at Lancaster and through our online blended learning approach.”