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The UCU-Endsleigh Life Changers awards are back for a second year with another set of worthy Introduction winners – people who embody everything that is good about further and higher education.

For UCU, the UCU-Endsleigh Life changers awards are not conventional ‘Oscars’ style awards. They by Sally Hunt are an illustration by individual example of what an amazing collective job our members do in General Secretary, UCU colleges and universities. UCU is proud to represent every single one of the 120,000 educators who make up UCU’s membership and I am delighted that so many of you who celebrated these unique and Stuart Wartalski awards with us last year are returning this year to pay your respects to another set of life changing Head of Corporate practitioners. Communications, Endsleigh Insurance The nominees in 2008, as last year, encapsulate the power of education to transform lives. Services They also in their different ways tell us how proud each nominee is to work as part of the academic team in their institution, how proud they are of the impact their work has on the wider community. Getting a better deal for the Life Changers from employers and from politicians is why these awards fit so neatly into our new ‘our college, our university, our community’ campaign which seeks to raise the banner for education as a liberator rather than simply a training conveyor belt.

I am pleased to also once again thank Endsleigh Insurance Services for their continued support for Life Changers. Without Endsleigh’s belief in and commitment to the awards and the need to recognise the work our members do these awards would never have got off the ground.

Now as we enter our second year I want also to thank the staff and students who nominated, as well as our distinguished judging panel. Most of all thank you to the nominees. These awards are one of the highlights of the year for me because they celebrate all that is best in post-16 education. Long may they continue!

Sally Hunt General Secretary, UCU

Endsleigh is proud to be supporting the UCU Life Changers awards as it underlines and celebrates those who champion and lead education – further and higher education staff who really make a difference to student lives and those who show a lifelong commitment to learning. Many of the qualities we value – leadership, determination, courage, teamwork, exceeding expectations – will be evident in both nominees and the UCU-Life Changer Award winners.

We now operate as one of the UKs well known education brands. With over 25 years’ experience, we aim to be recognised as a specialist provider of insurance making us best placed to serve both academic and non-academic education professionals.

We applaud the achievements of all those who are nominated and are proud to be the official partner for the UCU Life Changers Awards.

Stuart Wartalski Head of Corporate Communications, Endsleigh Insurance Services

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Te nomines Page

Kerith Harris ...... 3

Bill Allen ...... 4

Womens Opportunities Unit ...... 5

Lee Holder ...... 6

Dr Sue Starkings ...... 7

Carol Cusworth ...... 8

Lesley Hart ...... 9

Brian Spittles ...... 10

James Derounian ...... 11

Sarah Thorrington ...... 12

Professor Donald Nicolson ...... 13

Professor Patrick Smith ...... 14

Richard (Nick) Nicholls ...... 15

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She is also a great colleague, totally reliable, Kerith Harris approachable, professional and fun. She looks out for Te nomines University of Sussex colleagues as well as students, who bend her ear beyond and outside the remit of her UCU work. Kerith’s Kerith Harris Student Advisors at Sussex have a very wide remit from commitment to protecting her colleagues though her helping students settle at Induction through to offering trade union work is unsurprising but to take on a role Bill Allen support on Results day and beyond – in between time that places even more stress and distress in your path supporting and listening to any and many problems that and to then do it with such commitment and good Womens might pose a barrier to their academic success or humour is exceptional. Opportunities Unit personal well-being. They provide back-up for I have never seen her lose patience, empathy or her academics worried about their students, who can cool in her dealings with students, staff or management Lee Holder effectively pass the situation over and concentrate on alike making her a colleague upon whom you can rely teaching. The role can without doubt, knowing she Dr Sue Starkings be a difficult balancing has a clear view of how act as they also need to ’Kerith’s personal contribution things can be taken forward Carol Cusworth ensure University has been huge – above and with the highest level of standards and mutual understanding, Lesley Hart regulations are upheld. beyond, she has rescued many mindful of personal Brian Spittles Kerith’s personal students’ degrees and sanity circumstances and contribution has been mitigating factors. James Derounian huge – above and by her welcoming and UCU Branch Secretary beyond, she has rescued approachable presence.’ Jim Guild said “I’ve worked Sarah Thorrington many students’ degrees with Kerith in both her and sanity by her professional and trade Professor Donald welcoming and approachable presence. union roles and have been impressed by her ability to Nicolson Part of the job is the unexpected, and her ability to cope with levels of stress and hard work which would remain calm, friendly and also offer practical assistance break many other colleagues. Dealing with students Professor is assured. In a workplace where common sense is who are threatening to kill themselves, who are deeply Patrick Smith often far from common currency, Kerith’s capacity to depressed and anxious, who self-harm, who have eating concentrate on the key issues and not be distracted by disorders, who have come from abusive homes, who Richard (Nick) distress or panic have life-threatening Nicholls means she is illnesses, who are enormously effective. caring for children It would be very which may difficult (and themselves be ill or possibly wrong) to depressed, is not give detailed something our examples of the way academic colleagues Kerith has changed anticipate as forming the course of events part of their normal from bad to good, work – it is people like but I know of many Kerith who absorb disengaged students that stress and try to who were about to redirect it into useful leave mid-course avenues for the who went on to leave students which with good degrees means she has an after sitting down and talking it through with her. equally important role in the educational process as the Harder to work out and think about are the many star researcher or top-notch teacher. As for her trade students who have arrived in great distress and left union work – I don’t think I’ve met a more impressive calmer and able to face their problems with more case worker and negotiator. If I was a boss, I’d go cold if positivity and hope than, had she not offered the extra she was on the end of the phone asking about member support. She remains on call throughout, students X or the next JNC.” seem to track her down anywhere and launch into their Nominator: Jim Guild problems. She is on the frontline of the much-vaunted student experience and plays a key part in keeping the show on the road.

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Bill is an outstanding adult education tutor. He has Te nomines Bill Allen devised a comprehensive syllabus for his courses aimed Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service at empowering students to lead independent lives. “You Kerith Harris can get left out when you’re hard of hearing,” says Bill has taught Lipreading for 17 years, and works for the Patricia, one of Bill’s students, “..but I have the Bill Allen Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service, confidence now to ask people to look at me and teaching classes in Matlock, Buxton and at Hope Valley speak up.” Womens College. Bill’s hearing was damaged when he was These are some of the other things his students in Opportunities Unit young, as a result of working long hours at a circular Buxton and Hope Valley say: saw bench. “ I have lived in Lee Holder In addition to his teaching, Bill is terror of losing the vice-Chair of ATLA (the ’I have lived in terror of losing rest of my hearing, Dr Sue Starkings Association of Teachers of the rest of my hearing but Bill but Bill has given Lipreading to Adults), and has me a lifeline and I Carol Cusworth been an active committee has given me a lifeline and I no no longer have that member for 17 years. He has longer have that fear’ fear.” Lesley Hart played a leading role in ATLA’s “ Bill has not campaign for free lipreading only been an Brian Spittles classes. He is Chair of Hearing Concern’s Education and excellent tutor, but has helped everyone with their James Derounian Employment Projects group. The group’s role is individual problems related to deafness and has currently under review, but over many years, they have facilitated us to learn from each other’s experiences. “ Sarah Thorrington given advice and support for hearing impaired HE and “The information he has passed on about the FE students seeking employment. technique of speaking and sound amplification has Professor Donald Bill is vice-Chair (and was formerly Chair) of New really been life saving” Nicolson Mills Access Group. He and other group members use “ ..the course really has changed my life- I have much their experience and more confidence and have re-started Professor knowledge of disability to an evening class I had stopped going Patrick Smith advise local services, to because of my hearing loss, and I retailers and public bodies can continue with my committee work Richard (Nick) on compliance with the for several voluntary groups.” Nicholls DDA, and they lobby for I have worked with Bill for 13 years. recognition of the needs of He is a very modest person, and disabled people. doesn’t seek recognition for himself. Bill is an active member of But he is passionate about getting the the CICADA committee, needs of people with hearing loss made up of Cochlear recognised. I think what makes him Implant users. He helps special is the combination of his people with communication inspiring teaching, his support for skills as they strive to make students, and his active involvement in the most of their Cochlear campaigning. Through enabling Implants, to re-assess social individual students to lead more situations they may once independent lives, he helps people feel have lost. He is a founder valued and able to contribute more at member of Deaf and home and in their communities. Hearing Support, a charity Through his voluntary and based in Chesterfield giving advice on equipment which campaigning work, he helps people with hearing loss to can help people with hearing impairment to try and have a voice in the delivery of services. He doesn’t just normalise life at home. speak up on their behalf. For example he assists older Bill gives regular talks to staff in medical practices to students in his classes to participate in their local Older make them more aware of the needs of people using People’s Congress – this looks at improving local hearing aids, and to encourage referrals to lipreading services. classes. I think Bill does help to change people’s lives for the In recognition of how many hearing impaired older better. His students are his best advocates. As one of people (e.g. grandparents) long to be included in family them said recently: “ Bill has overcome his own conversations, and how easily young people’s hearing handicap and now helps others to overcome their own can be damaged, for example by loud music, Bill hearing disability. He is patient, helpful and an excellent provides ‘Deaf Awareness’ sessions at his local communicator.” primary school. Nominator: Steve Bond

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potential through hard work and the right direction and Women’s Opportunities Unit support. Perhaps the units strongest attribute was the Te nomines University of Ulster fact so many of the staff had started exactly where these women were now sitting at that precise time. Kerith Harris The Women’s Opportunities Unit is located in Dalriada, I left school with no formal qualifications and by the at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown campus, age of 16 was a single mum, with no job prospects. I Bill Allen Northern Ireland. enrolled on a course through the unit in 2002 and The Unit has played a pioneering role in the personal, completed a Diploma in IT. I was then able to carry on Womens professional and political development of women with my studies and gain a Degree in Computer Opportunities Unit returnees in Northern Ireland and sees its 21st year in Science. My confidence grew, I learnt invaluable skills. May 2008. It aims to promote Social Inclusion in the The pastoral care and support that is given to student Lee Holder 21st Century, increase women’s participation, improve within the unit is second to none. Today I work for one the quality of women’s training and reduce barriers to of the UK leading Insurance providers, and have Dr Sue Starkings access. Through the courses it aims to permeate the continued my education. I am in no doubt that the boundaries between education and training, it works people I am nominating do a brilliant job and deserve Carol Cusworth more closely with business and employers to ensure some form of credit, they are life changers. vertical and horizontal But the story Lesley Hart integration of these women in doesn’t end there. Brian Spittles the labour market and their ’The greatest gift anyone can Not only does the respect communities. The give is their time, and this unit unit support the James Derounian courses enable women to make students, but the their own contribution to gives it in abundance both internal support is Sarah Thorrington technology, to future oriented personally and professionally’ equally as jobs, to create their own impressive. Two Professor Donald enterprises, to use technology as years ago one Nicolson a tool in the growing service sector and to gain member of staff originally one of the past female employment at management and supervisory levels. students, was diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria and Professor In the past 21 years the unit has had immense job had subsequently made the huge leap from female to Patrick Smith satisfaction seeing women find a new path – male. The support of colleagues and students past and ‘The greatest gift anyone can give is their time, and present has been overwhelming such is the bond. Richard (Nick) this unit gives it in abundance both personally and I wish to nominate the Women’s Opportunities Unit Nicholls professionally. I’m doing a degree I never thought for a Life Changers award, it’s hard to pick one member possible at my time in life… you do a wonderful and of the unit to stand out, and they’ve all played a part. difficult job’. Especially significant would be the recognition at this Tina Newell (2007) point in time, as the University of Ulster has now Criminology Student decided the unit is to close. This kind of learning can ‘The diploma course has equipped me to do a degree. make a tremendous impact – on the lives of the women All-in-all, coming to this unit was one of the best who have completed the courses, on their communities, decisions I have made in my life… Thank-you.’ and on Northern Ireland as a whole, sad it is now no Jennifer Farr (2005) longer on the universities future objectives. Theology Student Nominator: Tracey Doherty ‘If the access course in IT and Management Studies had not been available to me i.e. an older adult returnee, with two children, I would have never have found the inner confidence to start over personally, today I have an education, a good career and a better lifestyle for my children. Your work is underrated WOU! Moira Fields (2003) ‘If only more educational establishments could use these courses and approach as a benchmark, truly we would have the students best interests at heart’. Judy Emms (2007) External Examiner (OU). The list goes on… and these are just some of the success stories the Women’s Opportunities unit can tell over its 21 years of operation. Women convinced they Professor Pauline Murphy have no prospects and in the end fulfilling their Founder of Ulster Womens Unit

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and a way forward in life as they realise they can Te nomines Lee Holder achieve a qualification in something that they actively Stroud College enjoy and have a passion for. Kerith Harris “The In Tune project was a tremendous success and I am nominating Lee Holder and Ian Jones for their fully engaged all the participants and enthused many Bill Allen outstanding work on the In Tune project at Stroud more besides. The end show created huge excitement College in Gloucestershire. Lee was the course tutor amongst fellow students and staff and gave the Womens and Ian was the support tutor. This project worked students a brilliant opportunity to be seen in a positive Opportunities Unit extensively with N.E.E.T.S and students at risk of light. The tutors were excellent in their approach, exclusion from education, through music technology. ensuring all students presented a very high standard of Lee Holder Lee and Ian’s total dedication, enthusiasm, hard work work. The course has led to several students altering and sense of humour enabled the project to be a option choices and choosing Music next year.” Dr Sue Starkings complete success in terms Simon Phelps, Lakers of brilliantly reengaging School, Forest of Dean Carol Cusworth these challenging students ’I’ve never forgotten how Lee and Ian set up the who had lost their focus in liberating it was to channel my project from scratch - Lesley Hart education, in achieving the outlining equipment required academic frustrations in order to create needed, ordering it and Brian Spittles qualification targets for the something positive’ setting it up within the James Derounian funded project, and also tight timescale and progressing students onto budget. They had a Sarah Thorrington further education courses who might otherwise have vision of what they wanted to achieve and I ,as project dropped out of the system. manager, was happy to let them push their innovative Professor Donald The project was extremely hard work as they went ideas forward. They succeeded in that vision. At all Nicolson out into the community and worked with the students times they would reflect on the previous project and in their own environments-schools, community centres, work hard to make the project better at the next venue. Professor pupil referral centres etc. The logistics alone of The project has proven to be a ‘safety net’ for those Patrick Smith transporting up to 40 boxes each day of computer who would not have carried on with their education and equipment from a van and then teaching successfully is has had an impact on the recruitment for courses at the Richard (Nick) worth an award! college at levels 1, 2 and 3. The team managed to create a climate Nicholls “The In Tune project of trust with the students by creating the changed my life. Last year I ground rules together and this made the had no interest in school learning environment a safe place for the and certainly didn’t want students to understand that they could to carry on in education- I achieve without being categorised. The couldn’t wait to leave. Now subject matter drew on the specific I have done the In Tune interests of each participant and the project I have a place on a teaching methodologies employed sought Level 2 Music Technology to provide instant engagement, and and Performing Arts motivate and encourage them to course in September at the participate fully in the learning. The small college. But as I have group size was designed to allow the worked hard since the particular needs of individuals to be project I am hoping I will assessed and met. gain 4 GCSEs and so be “In the 90s I formed a band as a able to go straight onto the creative outlet for my feelings as an angry Level 3 course. Here’s young man. Now in my 30s I no longer hoping! My mum is feel angry or young, but I’ve never amazed!” forgotten how liberating it was to channel my MJ, Student on the In Tune Project frustrations in order to create something positive. It was “Thank you for a great time at In Tune. You taught me this experience which was at the fore when designing how to work with music software, it helped me a lot… I the delivery of the In Tune course to reach at risk and am popular now with other students. I showed my DVD disaffected young people” to my parents, my mum and my auntie were very proud Lee Holder of me.” This is truly life changing for most of these students - Student on the In Tune project, who had previously for some education was just a waste of time. From Lee been an outsider at his school. and Ian’s work with them, they can now see the value Nominator: Katie Ordonez

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“I am grateful to those that organised the course - not Dr Sue Starkings only does it give you confidence but it motivates you to Te nomines London South Bank University want to carry on studying. For such a short course it is amazing how much one can learn …”. Kerith Harris Dr Sue Starkings has spent a significant part of her “The course helped me become more confident with academic career developing learning support services my studies, improving my writing and reading as well as Bill Allen for students in Higher Education, not only in her field of verbal communication skills. I would recommend it to Mathematics and Statistics, but also in English and anyone who wants to study in Higher Education. I am Womens Study Skills. This focus has been driven by Sue’s own now applying for a degree in nursing”. Opportunities Unit experience. She came from a working class background Sue provides firm leadership, organisation and on an estate in Southwark, with no immediate role direction to the programme, giving a significant degree Lee Holder models, male or female, to encourage her to enter of support to her teaching staff and fostering innovative education. Sue left school teaching ideas (e.g. cross- Dr Sue Starkings at 15 but returned to curricula collaboration, education at 24 as a ’Not only does it give you fully embedded IT training Carol Cusworth mature student and a confidence but it motivates you and e-learning). She also working mother of two. gives guidance to her staff Lesley Hart Through sheer to want to carry on studying. in maintaining her vision of Brian Spittles determination she has For such a short course it is a motivating and rewarding forged a successful career course for the students, James Derounian in Higher Education, amazing how much one emphasising that teachers recently becoming a can learn’ on the course are student- Sarah Thorrington National Teaching Fellow, centred in their approach. one of only 50 in the The Fast Track course Professor Donald country to be nominated for this prestigious award. has become a model for encouraging students of wide Nicolson Sue has been determined to give others the ability and backgrounds to consider university and to encouragement to enter higher education that she give them the opportunity to enhance their skills as Professor missed herself, helping people to overcome barriers to Patrick Smith success and changing lives as a result. She has provided inspiration and encouragement to individuals in her early Richard (Nick) career as a teacher, but it is her determination to Nicholls continue to do so at management level that is particularly impressive - she now changes lives for hundreds. Her influence can be demonstrated through London South Bank University’s summer Fast Track programme. Sue secured funding for, and then developed an ambitious programme of support for students under the widening participation umbrella. This six-week summer programme was set up in 1998 in order to cater for students from non-traditional backgrounds who would previously not have considered university as a viable option. Indeed, the nearby Boroughs of Southwark, Lambeth and Lewisham had some of the lowest progression rates in the country at the time. Sue has since developed the course such that prospective undergraduate students are given the chance to enter the university with increased confidence and develop their range of academic skills. Each year these students become acclimatised to university culture prior to the start of each academic year, learning key academic skills at a pace that allows them to build confidence. Today, the Fast Track course is well-respected by students, with very high levels of student retention and independent learners. Over 1,500 students have satisfaction. Most importantly, there is a strong focus on individually benefited from the course; Sue has been the widening participation and opportunity for all. The relentless driving force behind this. programme is also open to students who may go on to Nominators: Graham Barton, John Bainbridge, study at a different university. Catherine Boyle

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to the roles, and even though she is hierarchically our Te nomines Carol Cusworth superior she never interferes and really only gives Doncaster College advise when really needed or when asked. Kerith Harris To be greeted with a heart felt welcome is the first Carol has been a dedicated teacher, then a level 1 thing that amazes you when you meet Carol for the first Bill Allen course leader for over 10 years at Doncaster College. time, so full of life, inspiration that she absolutely glows I believe prior to this she worked for 10 years as a with extraordinary personality. Never down or never Womens waitress in a hotel. Then dull she really brings the Opportunities Unit having married and had true meaning to life itself. children she decided to ’She has fought tooth and nail My first encounter of Lee Holder return to college and gain on occasion for the fair meeting Carol showed some new skills in extreme warmth towards Dr Sue Starkings computing. She enrolled treatment and equality of ‘her me; basically I was on the on a ‘Women in IT’ course kids’, when they may have scrap heap or felt that way, Carol Cusworth which is a basic, unemployed, no prospects introductory course which been seen as ‘poor relations’ with very little if any Lesley Hart was devised solely for qualifications applying for woman ‘returners’ who a position realistically I Brian Spittles maybe lacked confidence. Apparently she loved the didn’t have a chance of securing. I didn’t feel that way James Derounian learning process and went on to obtain a BSc (hons) in within seconds of being interviewed, talk about Business Computing and then studied and achieved a compassion, self worth or self belief! Wow I felt a Sarah Thorrington PGCE, so that she could pass on her knowledge. million dollars! Carol taught for several years on various Professor Donald courses and levels before being promoted to Nicolson be the level one course leader. This was her main area of teaching (though not exclusive Professor area). At Level 1, the young people that enroll Patrick Smith are typically age 16 and straight out of compulsory education. They are often entirely Richard (Nick) disengaged from learning and coming for the £30 per week EMA. She has single handed Nicholls reengaged these learners into education with many going on to achieve A level equivalencies and then onto HE. She has fought ‘tooth and nail’ on occasion for the fair treatment and equality of ‘her kids’, when they may have been seen as ‘poor relations’ for example by other levels of education. As the course leader she has always been incredibly supportive of the teachers, learning mentors and learning support assistants in her team. She has always gone ‘above and beyond on many occasions to support both the learners and staff. She was recently (Sept 07) promoted to Curriculum Openly Carol knew I was struggling and had very Leader and I applied for and got her former position as little experience to teach but she welcomed me with Level 1 course leader at Doncaster Colleges, ICT dept. open arms and wanted me to teach for her, oh boy let As a new course leader (alongside a new level 2 the church bells ring and that is how I exactly felt, this course leader), I am so very, very grateful for her just sums up what an extraordinary person she really is” complete loyalty, guidance and support in my new role. Level 2 course leader She has on many occasions contacted me ‘out of hours’ On behalf of the hundreds of young lives she has to offer support and friendship as I have found the new changed and the adult lives she has improved just by role rather challenging (to say the least!). Carol is never working alongside and being so skillfully guided by her, arrogant and allows both I and the Level 2 course leader we truly believe that she is a life changer. (who is the co-nominator) to bring our own personality Nominator: Cath Butler

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organizations and sent me off on a study tour to find Lesley Hart out about the Folk High Schools in Denmark. I thought Te nomines University of Strathclyde it important to create opportunities for travel as well as organize local events like theatre visits and Burns Kerith Harris Nominee Lesley Hart is currently Director of the Centre Suppers. The exchange visits were tremendously for Lifelong Learning, University of Strathclyde. This stimulating and friendships still survive to this day!” Bill Allen year the Learning in Later Life Students’ Association Jim, a former salesman, had taken early retirement (3Ls), celebrates twenty years of growth and and was enthused by the sense of purpose gained in his Womens development thanks to the support and leadership she Association role. After completing his two years’ Opportunities Unit offered at its humble beginnings in 1987 when she was presidency he was encouraged by Lesley to take his Programme Co-ordinator, then from 1991 – 2001 as new passion for learning further and undertook an Lee Holder Head of the Senior Studies Institute (SSI), and now as Access course. Then Lesley offered him a part-time job the Centre’s Director. in the Institute organizing study trips and related Dr Sue Starkings The Association grew out of a 1987 initiative when events. Spurred on by success he enrolled on an the University offered a undergraduate history Carol Cusworth small Learning in Later Life course and in 1997 proudly Programme of classes. The ’I can say, hand on heart, that received his degree with Lesley Hart response was amazing his family in attendance. the 3Ls has been a totally Brian Spittles with every place filled. At “Without the confidence the end of this first year, a transforming experience and that I developed in the James Derounian deputation of students we have Lesley to thank not Association and prodding approached Lesley to from Lesley I doubt I Sarah Thorrington discuss forming a only for getting it off to a flying would have had the democratic group under start but keeping us on track’ courage to begin. And Professor Donald the University’s auspices to when, sadly I lost my wife Nicolson allow their learning to and daughter, the flourish and also include a strong social dimension. Association was a lifeline. Reflecting on the last twenty Professor Soon the 3Ls Student Association was established with years of my life I can’t imagine how they would have Patrick Smith its own constitution and financial autonomy. turned out without it. I can say, hand on heart, that the From these early beginnings with 80 members the 3Ls has been a totally transforming experience and we Richard (Nick) Association has grown to around 1000. The initial small have Lesley to thank not only for getting it off to a flying Nicholls programme of social activities has been transformed start but keeping us on track.” into an annual calendar of events. All current and past Another unique aspect of the Association is the students on the 3L Programme of classes can join. Clubs that have emerged from the classes. These allow Irené Rankin, current President of the 3Ls students to pursue their specific interests and organize Association, reflects on why it is so successful with their own meetings and activities. All clubs are open to sustained growth over a twenty year period. 3Ls members. Each club has its own committee, sets its “When people own agenda and feeds back to the 3Ls through the have to consider Council of Clubs. Whether taking place outside or life after work, meeting in the University learning is sociable, often the first experiential, real and ongoing. question is What Here is what some of the club members say - Now? The Ellen Graham, French Club – “We started with Association offers outside speakers but now everyone is willing to take a so many learning turn.” and social Eddie McConnell, Art Club – “I never ever thought of opportunities- myself as an artist but people are so encouraging. things for which Recently I won a competition and I’m over the moon.” there was never time, things that seemed well nigh Jessie Clark; Tuesday Club – “We help out with impossible. It has such a positive impact and one special University mailings on Tuesdays when required. student recently commented ‘Thank goodness for its Our members rarely miss a call to action.” existence.’ Lesley had the insight to realize that an older Ruby Pollitt, a founding member of the Architecture students’ Association would add an extra rich layer to Club (currently over 80 members)– “It all began with the student experience.” Glasgow City of Architecture 1999. We became hooked The first president Jim Alexander (who is still going on Glasgow’s Victorian heritage and the emergence of strong!) takes up the story. the modern city. We just can’t get enough of it!” “Lesley was keen that we learn from other Nominator: Irene Rankin

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that opportunities didn't exist or that the individual's Te nomines Brian Spittles potential was not realised until later in life). As such it Ruskin College take entrants who have missed out on many Kerith Harris educational opportunities and immerses them in the I am nominating Brian Spittles a former tutor in English world of learning (and where better for such an Bill Allen Literature and Cultural Studies at Ruskin College, experience than Oxford). Oxford. Brian is now retired but as well as spending In my own case I was a coalminer from South Womens many years at Ruskin he has also worked with the Yorkshire and had only left mining two weeks prior to Opportunities Unit British Council in teaching British Studies in Central arriving at Ruskin (age 34). As such I was fairly raw but Europe and with Oxford soon found that Brian was Lee Holder University’s Department ’A wonderful human being, a very able to bring out the of Continuing Education. best in me in terms of my, Dr Sue Starkings Officially he is an superb teacher and someone hidden and/or Honorary Fellow of underdeveloped academic Carol Cusworth who has remained my friend Ruskin College. and intellectual attributes. over many years’ His patient, detailed, Lesley Hart I first encountered Brian as a student at indeed painstaking, Brian Spittles Ruskin College, Oxford in approach to every aspect of 1983. Ruskin is part of the network of Workers' College the educational process benefited me enormously. James Derounian which have been established over the years partly by Nothing was too small to seem unimportant, such as funding from the TUC. It is an institution aimed at the time he took me aside to explain the difference Sarah Thorrington providing higher education for those who, for various between "its" and "it's" and on many occasions, too reasons, missed out on the chance earlier in life (in the numerous to mention, I benefited from his friendly, Professor Donald case of women this was often for child care reasons, for always cheerful advice despite the fact that forging Nicolson men the necessity to go out and earn a living, or simply something out of such apparently unpromising raw material must, at times, seemed a Professor daunting if not impossible task. Patrick Smith My own trajectory took me to Bristol University where I studied for Richard (Nick) a BA in Drama, Film and TV, then Nicholls back to home town of Sheffield for an MA in Film Studies at what was then Sheffield Polytechnic. Later I spent some 9 years in Hungary teaching Film Studies at various Universities, where by chance I bumped into Brian again, this time in his role as adviser for the British Council and its Overseas teaching programme. His enthusiasm was undiminished nor had the years in any way eroded his intellectual and profound pedagogic abilities. I am now Senior Lecturer in Film Studies at Sheffield Hallam University. My first book was published in 2004 and my next will be out in 2009. My 'journey' from coalminer to university lecturer would not have been possible without Ruskin College, its wonderful staff and most of all, Brian Spittles, a wonderful human being, a superb teacher and someone who has remained my friend over many years. Nominator: John Cunningham.

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the university: James Derounian “On a field trip there was a clear division of opinion Te nomines University of Gloucestershire between two groups of students which was causing some friction and tension. However due to James’ Kerith Harris James Derounian is a Principal Lecturer in community approachable nature and his sensitivity to all points of development & local governance at the University of view, this meant that he was able to become a key Bill Allen Gloucestershire and a National Teaching Fellow. intermediary between the groups and this alleviated the James also works within both his local and the tension on the trip.” Kirsty Aughton (Joint Heritage and Womens university community, taking an ardent interest in Landscape Management student). Opportunities Unit community development issues, and he uses these “I’ve always enjoyed going to James’ lecturers. He scenarios to illuminate his lectures and create a has an ability not to talk at you but he talks with you” Lee Holder cohesive university Helen Doubble (Joint Human community. He also Geography and Psychology Dr Sue Starkings understands the need ’James is not only an student) for students to have inspirational lecturer but also “James has the ability to Carol Cusworth practical experiences relate to all students, he and so takes them on a role model in the field of doesn’t hold any prejudiced Lesley Hart many fieldtrips, giving views as to what your community development’ Brian Spittles them the opportunity background will mean with to get involved and regards to your ability to learn James Derounian participate in local issues. This provides students with a and understand.” Gemma Simpson (Human Geography voice and prepares them for the real world, providing student) Sarah Thorrington students with the opportunity to put the theory of their “I’ve always been shy but James has given me subjects into practice. confidence to speak out in class and ask questions. It’s Professor Donald James is an inspiring lecturer who always expresses a in his nature to put people at ease” Claire Ball (Joint Nicolson keen interest in his students and creates a relaxing Human Geography and Heritage Management student) atmosphere for learning. His engaging and enjoyable "James' friendliness, sensitivity to student issues and Professor lectures show the great enthusiasm he has for his sense of humour make him an approachable and Patrick Smith subject area and through the use of case studies, often exceptionally well-liked lecturer. He has offered support gained from his experiences, he encourages students to and encouragement regarding many aspects of Richard (Nick) relate to real life situations. His teaching style studying at university and planning a career afterwards. Nicholls encourages active learning and participation, which His modules are fun, interesting and informative, and he gives his students confidence that has an unusual ability to engage and they can achieve their goals and involve the whole room during even surpass their expectations. lectures". Kate Johnston (Heritage Furthermore James recognises Management and Human that everyone learns differently and Geography student) therefore he adapts his teaching “James has awoken my interest in methods to encompass this. He also the field of community development, solidifies learning through recapping which is about empowering people on work previously covered and and providing them with a fair therefore students feel they gain chance to help shape their society. more from his lectures. James utilises a community Through his genuine interest in development approach in his his students’ backgrounds, he helps lectures encouraging students to students find ways to build on prior build on their individual strengths learning and he offers helpful career and to actively work together with advice. James, being a very approachable person, is other students in class activities to develop lectures always willing to help above and beyond the call of that are suitable to students’ learning needs. James is duty. Indeed, students know that they can go to him for not only an inspirational lecturer but also a role model advice with regards to any aspect of university life. It is in the field of community development”. Tina very clear to students that he genuinely cares, taking a McCausland (previously Heritage Management and keen interest in how students are doing in other Human Geography student and currently Disability modules and in their personal wellbeing. James plays a Coordinator staff member at the University of significant role in enhancing the student experience Gloucestershire) thus students hold him in high regard and have a great This nomination comes with significant support from affection for him. This can be seen from the following many students and members of staff at the University quotes taken from students and a member of staff at of Gloucestershire.

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confidence she has instilled in me," he says. "From the Te nomines Sarah Thorrington feedback I receive from members who attend Skills for Stoke-on-Trent College Life courses, she is a complete inspiration." Kerith Harris On top of all this, Sarah is also studying for an MA. Having completed her degree, Sarah Thorrington put "When learners first come to classes they say they Bill Allen aside plans to go into teaching when she was offered a want to better themselves," she says, "but as lecturers chance to work in a live music promotion business. we are under pressure to get them through exams as Womens Then one day she read a report in the Guardian on quickly as possible. This prompted my research Opportunities Unit poverty. question for the MA: How can teachers ensure that "I remember feeling strongly that what would change literacy classes improve the life chances of learners?" Lee Holder people's lives would be learning," said Sarah. "It started Sarah asked a group of colleagues to volunteer for an a shift in my outlook and ambitions, which soon action research project. "I wanted to empower lecturers Dr Sue Starkings resulted in me starting a teacher training in the same way that course." our classes should Carol Cusworth In just one year, 1996 -7, Sarah gained her empower learners, C&G teaching qualification, a counselling and to raise morale in Lesley Hart diploma and an introductory adult literacy the department," she tutor's certificate. "When I did my placement said. Brian Spittles in a literacy class I felt that teaching literacy Sarah believes that James Derounian was where my strengths were," she says. literacy opens doors - Sarah became a volunteer tutor at Stoke- "but what I have read Sarah Thorrington on-Trent College, where a big demand for for the MA suggests literacy classes was beginning to develop. At it's as much about Professor Donald that time in Stoke traditional industries were speaking skills as Nicolson in decline and many workers were finding it was no writing skills," she says. The research therefore longer possible to leave school without qualifications concentrated on trying out different speaking and Professor and gain a job for life. By 2004 Stoke-on-Trent was listening activities with literacy learners. Patrick Smith ranked as the 18th most deprived local authority in "The research helped me to get back into enjoying the UK. what I do," says Val Wood, one of the participants. "In Richard (Nick) Sarah soon became a full time literacy teacher at my classes now we spend time building up speaking Stoke-on-Trent College; in 2003 she became an and listening skills and learners have produced some Nicholls Advanced Skills Teacher and then Workplace outstanding work. Two of them have gone on to win Development Leader. In prizes in the RAW stories this role, "I engage with national competition; their employers and extend ’I remember feeling strongly stories are going to be Skills for Life provision that what would change published in a BBC into the workplace, to anthology and they both reach more learners and people’s lives would be received prizes to the value develop programmes learning. It started a shift in of £250." that meet their needs, Sally Lowden used the however and wherever," my outlook and ambitions’ research with a small group says Sarah. of ESOL learners. "The Sarah has been known to work at the Post Office at students valued the opportunity to discuss issues which 5am, at Sainsbury's from midnight till 3am, and in related to them personally and to feel that their another factory from 10pm till midnight - as well as individual language needs were being addressed in the working a normal 10 hour day in college. "Night workers classroom," she says, "whereas too often the classroom have the right to access to learning too," says Sarah language is 'top-down', dictated by the curriculum and when colleagues look aghast at the hours she works.. focused on written skills which can be easily Jim McDermott, the Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator at evidenced." 'First Potteries' says, "Sarah has always made herself Finally, one of Sarah's learners, Lisa, says, "I did two available to give advice and guidance or invigilate online English courses with Sarah and got an equivalent to an tests at any time whenever she was called upon. Her English GCSE. She was fantastic. On our first meeting professional approach has made life much easier and she recognised that I was dyslexic and it turned out that more convenient for all involved." I was and never knew. She gave me confidence and Dave Condliffe, Project Worker for the made me feel proud of myself. She showed me ways of Communication Workers' Union, works with Sarah doing things I thought I'd never achieve. I am a better organising Skills for life courses for his members. "Sarah person and a happier person for meeting her." has helped me to progress in the Union through the Nominator: Kirstie Benefer

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As well as providing students with practical Professor Donald Nicolson experience which can make a real difference to their Te nomines University of Strathclyde Law Clinic confidence, their academic results, and their employability, the Law Clinic has undoubtedly proved a Kerith Harris Professor Donald Nicolson is founder and director of ‘life changing’ experience for some. Jenny Wallace was the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic. Unique in on the verge of dropping out of university when she saw Bill Allen Scotland, the Clinic enables students to gain hands-on a poster about the Clinic. She joined the Clinic and legal experience by providing free advice and went on to become its student director. She says ‘I will Womens representation for people qualify as a solicitor in Opportunities Unit who would otherwise be ’I believe that it truly makes a October – and it’s mainly unable to obtain legal thanks to Donald.’ For Lee Holder assistance. difference to the lives of both Virginia Toyi, who A graduate of the the advisers and the clients doubted whether she Dr Sue Starkings University of Cape Town, had chosen the right Donald first came to the UK and it would not exist without course, joining the Law Carol Cusworth in 1983 to study for a PhD at Donald’ Clinic ‘is one of the best Cambridge. On graduating, decisions I have made in Lesley Hart he knew that, if he returned my life. Not only do I Brian Spittles to South Africa, he would be conscripted into military enjoy studying law so much but I feel completely service or face jail. As a passionate opponent of fulfilled as I am able to help others. It is both James Derounian apartheid, he was granted political asylum and settled challenging and satisfying.’ in the UK. For Donald, a major factor in his political However, it is not only students who benefit from the Sarah Thorrington radicalisation was his experience as a student adviser in Law Clinic. Since 2003, it has helped nearly 500 the UCT Law Clinic, providing legal advice in local clients, dealing with issues Professor Donald townships. Although choosing to pursue an academic ranging from consumer Nicolson career, he was determined to continue helping others, disputes to unfair dismissals and to provide similar opportunities for his own and unlawful evictions, and Professor students. He therefore set up his own law clinics, first providing help on both a Patrick Smith at Bristol University and then, on a far larger scale, at practical and an emotional Strathclyde. Since the founding of the Strathclyde level. According to Clinic Richard (Nick) Clinic in 2003, around 300 students have been involved members Helen Bain and Nicholls in helping clients. Stuart Kelly, ‘Clients consistently praise the work of the For many students, a law degree can seem like just a Law Clinic – we truly are making a substantial path to a lucrative career, or merely an intellectual difference to bettering the lives of the people of game. However, others embark on their legal studies Glasgow ... and Professor Nicolson is continually with much nobler ideas of ‘doing justice’. Donald’s main developing plans to expand in the community so that motivation is to foster these social and moral more people can receive the benefit. commitments, by encouraging students to choose legal There is no doubt that Donald is an inspirational role careers which give something back to the community. model for his students, giving up much of his own time According to third year student Fiona Davidson, ‘As a to run the Clinic on top of his teaching, administrative rather mature fresher, I was at first daunted and and research commitments. Another student adviser, distinctly overwhelmed by university life as a whole, but Chloe Cannon, says that ‘I think it is inspiring how Professor Nicolson’s vibrant passion and enthusiasm for someone so clever has not just jumped into legal the Law Clinic, its ethos, its aims and commitment to practice to make a packet of money but has instead social justice and assisting those most in need of legal dedicated huge parts of his life to volunteer causes.’ assistance reflected the very reason I chose to Jenny Wallace also notes that ‘Although Donald is undertake the LLB. I am extremely proud and honored extremely busy, he makes time to develop personal to have been selected as a student adviser at the Law relationships with all of the students he deals with – Clinic.’ Similarly, for Julie Hodson – a student on the more than the average lecturer.’ She goes on to say that Clinical Legal Practice course established to support the ‘The Law Clinic is an integral part of the life of many law Clinic’s work – the course ‘was brilliant in providing a students, academics and now solicitors. I believe that it viewpoint of the law that you would not gain in other truly makes a positive difference to the lives of both the classes... Donald made us consider the ethical advisers and the clients; and it would not exist without perspectives of certain situations and instilled a sense Donald. His commitment and vision have made a of morality in me that I did not have prior to the course.’ fundamental difference to both the civil justice system Enthused by their experiences as students, many Clinic in Glasgow and the students of Strathclyde Law School, alumni have continued to help out after qualifying and will continue to do so.’ as lawyers. Nominator: Aileen McHarg

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internationally, as core reading for anyone who requires Te nomines Professor Patrick Smith an articulate and critical view of the (mis)use of Buckinghamshire New University ‘learning objectives’. In this way too, he has contributed Kerith Harris a broadened understanding of the role of learning Patrick is Professor of Learning and Teaching at outcomes in curriculum development and thus to the Bill Allen Buckinghamshire New University where he has spent expanded learning opportunities of many thousands of the last twenty-five years enhancing the learning learners. Womens experience of a wide range of higher education In recent years, at a point when he might have been Opportunities Unit students. While the considering retirement, professorial role can often he has been the key Lee Holder involve a diminished developer and engagement with promoter of, and lead Dr Sue Starkings undergraduate students, tutor on, an innovative Patrick has actively sought and ground-breaking Carol Cusworth out opportunities to Masters’ Degree continue working with programme in Lesley Hart students at all levels, Leadership and working recently with Management. The Brian Spittles cohorts on a range of awards foundation of this James Derounian from foundation degrees to particular course is not masters programmes. the classroom but the Sarah Thorrington Working as he does at an individual participant’s institution which promotes workplace and Professor Donald widened participation and a particular experience. Nicolson ‘second chance’ at Higher While other higher Education, Patrick’s degrees in this domain Professor commitment to education as might emphasise the Patrick Smith a transformative endeavour roles of ‘the subject is truly exceptional. content’ and ‘the Richard (Nick) Patrick’s current role is as tutor’, Pat has built a Nicholls both educational developer course that treats ‘the and teacher on a wide subject process’ and variety of work-based learning courses. Ranging from ‘course participants’ as equal partners in the learning intermediate level to masters level, these programmes process. recognise and treat the workplace as equal to ‘the During the period in which I have been working with Academy’ as a source of learning and regard work- Patrick, a large proportion of his students have been based students as equivalent to their full-time mature learners, entering higher education for the first University peers. Pat insists that anyone engaged in any time and often with some considerable trepidation. I am kind of proficient and aware that a good many of expert activity, be it (for these students attribute example) teaching dance ’Students recognise the their successful induction within local communities importance of his ongoing into the higher education or managing crowd safety community entirely to and security at major support, generous and detailed Patrick’s efforts and in their events has the right to feedback and his holistic subsequent progress and think of themselves as achievement they highly-skilled individuals attitude to student learning recognise the importance and proceed to have and development’ of his ongoing support, those skills recognised generous and detailed through formal Higher feedback and his holistic Education qualifications. In this respect, his work to approach to student learning and development. promote access to both Higher Education and true While his modesty would prompt him to claim that Lifelong Learning has been pioneering while his pastoral he merits no exceptional regard, Patrick’s many and professional support of students in transition has students would all attest that he has indeed ‘gone the been a privilege to witness. extra mile’ throughout his working life. I have no Pat is also the author of major publications which are hesitation in nominating Patrick as a ‘Life Changer’. acknowledged by curriculum developers nationally and Nominator: Roger Dalrymple

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enthusiastic and thought provoking he can make you Richard (Nick) Nicholls laugh one minute then light the blue touch paper and Te nomines Solihull College sit back and watch the inevitable lively debate take place.” Indeed Nick’s ability to generate a debate Kerith Harris A former student of Nick’s (Damian Ibison) said to me around issues is legendary and to watch him in action “in all the years that I have gone through the various playing ‘agent provocateur’ to pull an issue into focus is Bill Allen educational establishments I have never been so an honour. inspired as I have been by the teachings of Nick – I have In his teaching Nick encourages students to use and Womens learned not only the subject but the applications I can develop their enquiry skills and to dig beneath the Opportunities Unit qualify it with.” Nick’s outstanding passion and surface of the immediate task or issue that they are enthusiasm for learning and dealing with. This Lee Holder trade union education is what interrogational approach to makes him so special and this representing members, Dr Sue Starkings enthusiasm is passed on to all collective bargaining and Carol Cusworth who come in contact with academic learning has equipped students to be him. Lesley Hart Nick teaches for the Trade effective union reps on the one Union Studies Unit within hand and successful learners Brian Spittles Solihull College and is based on the other. Nick has at the Communication encouraged many adult trade James Derounian Workers Union (CWU) union learners to embrace Education and Training Centre learning for its own sake and Sarah Thorrington near Oxford. For many years follow progression routes into Nick was a CWU activist and higher education degree and Professor Donald served as a member of the Masters courses. Indeed a Nicolson CWU Executive. As a person mutual colleague (Paul who under went his own Pritchard) who was taught by Professor education in later life (he obtained his degree at the age Nick and is now himself a tutor with Trade Union Patrick Smith of 39), Nick has great empathy with adult students and Studies at Solihull noted “it was Nick who recognised does his utmost to remove as many barriers to learning that I had the ability to become a tutor and encouraged Richard (Nick) as he can. Nick teaches the TUC Diploma in me to apply. Left to my own devices I most certainly Nicholls Contemporary Trade Unionism and imparts his love of would have lacked the confidence in my own abilities to labour history to students. He spends many hours take that step. Nick has been such a great help to me offering one to one tuition and coaching to get students offering supportive and constructive advice. I believe up to standard during which time he is developing their that had Nick not taken me under his wing I would not confidence so that they have been able to realise can become self enabled any of the achievements I learners – he treasures all ’Nick is unique; there is no one have made over the last input and helps students quite like him and his few years. Nick always has to believe that their a new article or book for contributions are as demonstrable commitment to me to read to help me valuable as any other. and belief in trade union widen my knowledge of The heart of trade union labour history and his education is to work education and learning over enthusiasm and joy at together as a collective to half a century mean that he is passing these on is achieve individual goals infectious.” and Nick’s teaching style a true life changer’ The respect and esteem is testament to this ethos. in which Nick is held by his As a former student Jan Zablocki stated “his warm, colleagues and students is reflected in the fact that he natural, sensitive, humorous, mischievous and charming is affectionately known as ‘Gandalf’ – the wise wizard but provocative demeanor makes you feel at ease and from Lord of the Rings. Working with Nick over the encourages you to open up with your own ideas and years has been an honour and a privilege. Nick is contributions in a subject matter.” unique; there is no one quite like him, and his Nick is able to politicise without polarising and opens demonstrable commitment and belief in trade union up avenues of discussion and thought for students that education and learning over half a century means that they would not necessarily explore. As one student, he is a true ‘life changer.’ Laura Wright noted “his style of teaching is both Nominator: Julia Matthews

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A major SPEAKERS INCLUDE: conference I Professor Dexter Whitfield EUROPEAN SERVICES STRATEGY UNIT open to union I Professor Ken Spours INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION activists, MPs, I Professor Roger Seifert UNIVERSITY OF KEELE councillors, I Sally Hunt GENERAL SECRETARY, UCU I journalists and Christine Blower DEPUTY GENERAL SECRETARY, NUT anyone As well as contributions from experts, the conference will feature work- shops led by activists on: interested in I Resisting City Academies I The marketisation and privatisation of the impact of higher education I The Skills Agenda, Train2Gain and private marketisation providers I Building grassroots responses and organising around on education. marketisation I Using the political process to challenge the market I Defending quality and advancing an alternative vision of education Saturday 17 May 2008 We hope this conference will be a significant step in developing the unions’ and activists’ response to the encroachment of privatisation at UCU and the market into education. Conference This conference is free but space is limited, so register now at Centre, www.ucu.org.uk/challengingthemarket 27 Britannia Street, London WC1X 9JP

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