Education Development

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Education Development - Northumbria University

At Northumbria, we provide support, resources and opportunities to empower everyone to continue to develop and succeed.

Here's what makes our approach to education development stand out:

Professional Recognition That Counts

Our Advance HE-accredited professional recognition scheme, established in 2015, is available to all colleagues engaged in teaching or learning support activities at any career stage. Currently, 67% of our academic staff hold Advance HE Fellowship recognition (sector average: 46%), and 78% possess academic teaching qualifications. This demonstrates our institutional commitment to pedagogical excellence and provides you with access to a substantial community of practice. Our scheme supports progression from Associate Fellowship through to Principal Fellowship, with tailored guidance at each level.

A Flexible Teaching Qualifications Framework

Our professional development framework is integrated into probationary requirements, ensuring all new academic colleagues receive structured time and specialist support to develop their pedagogical practice. The framework acknowledges prior experience and qualifications, offering flexible pathways that reflect both individual development needs and Northumbria's distinctive educational context and strategic priorities.

Comprehensive Induction & Peer Support

From commencement of employment, colleagues access comprehensive induction into Northumbria's educational culture and practices. Our structured peer observation scheme facilitates collaborative professional development, enabling colleagues to engage with innovative pedagogical approaches across disciplines, share effective practice, and develop sustained professional networks that enhance teaching quality and educational innovation.

Celebrating Excellence in Education

Outstanding teaching practice is recognised and rewarded through multiple channels at Northumbria. Our annual Education Awards programme acknowledges exceptional contributions to learning and teaching. We provide dedicated support for colleagues pursuing external fellowship recognition, and maintain an active community of Senior and Principal Fellows of Advance HE who contribute to institutional teaching enhancement, mentor colleagues, and champion pedagogical innovation across the university.