Northumbria’s approach to Education Development, including the development of colleagues’ teaching practices, is central to delivering high-quality teaching that underpins our University Strategy. By embedding inclusive, research-informed practices, we create learning environments where students feel a genuine sense of belonging and are empowered to succeed. This commitment goes beyond academic achievement, it nurtures confidence, autonomy, and resilience, equipping students to navigate complex challenges and thrive in diverse contexts. Our high-quality teaching shapes experiences that inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and enable every learner to reach their potential.

Through the principles of our Quality Enhancement and Development (QED) framework, and aligned to Advance HE’s Professional Standards Framework 2023, Education Development at Northumbria drives impact by supporting colleagues to connecting high-quality teaching to strategic priorities, student success, and the creation of graduates who are ready to shape the future.

CPD: Education Continuous Professional Development

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) at Northumbria plays a vital role in enhancing teaching quality and driving innovation. Through bookable workshops such as Educational Insight sessions and our Professional Recognition-aligned CPD, colleagues have opportunities to explore contemporary pedagogic approaches, inclusive practices, and strategies that align with our University Strategy. These sessions create space for dialogue and collaboration, enabling staff to share experiences, reflect on challenges, and co-develop solutions that improve student learning and engagement.

Our Education CPD Resource Library further amplifies this impact by showcasing examples of good practice from across the University, alongside curated readings and digital content.

CITE: Community for Innovation in Teaching and Education

The Community for Innovation in Teaching and Education (CITE) is a collaborative community of educators focusing upon bringing creative, innovative and future-focused approaches to address the University Education Strategic Objectives.

Established in 2023, CITE brings together academics, professional and technical support staff, and students from across the University, working together to place education at the heart of the University’s activities, celebrating excellence and success, sharing best practice and innovation.

Our activity is led by Learning Circles whose focus is upon co-generating and articulating Northumbria’s distinctive authentic and experiential pedagogy.  We seek to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion though our practices as a research-intensive university in the North East of England, with a high proportion of regionally-based widening participation students, as well as students from overseas.

CITE meets twice each semester to develop the work of Learning Circles, and support Northumbria’s funded Enhancement Projects, inviting external speakers, and leading Northumbria’s annual Celebration of Education.

POSS: Peer Observation and Support Scheme

Northumbria’s Peer Observation and Support Scheme creates space for educators to learn from one another. Encouraging open dialogue and shared reflection, observations are framed as opportunities for mutual learning, enabling colleagues to exchange ideas, explore innovative approaches, and identify practical strategies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Through constructive feedback and discussion, staff gain fresh perspectives on their practice, develop confidence in trying new methods, and contribute to a collective commitment to excellence.

Good practice

Our Education CPD Resource Library brings together examples of good practice from across Northumbria, alongside useful reading and video content to support your development. 

Experiential learning?