News

Durham appoints expert in teaching and learning to new job as Pro-Vice- Chancellor for Student Experience

(5 January 2007)

For many students in the UK the experience of university never extends beyond the lecture theatre, part-time work and the pub. At Durham the student experience has always meant more - educating and developing the whole individual - and the University is now appointing a leading expert in learning and education to the new position of Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience to champion all areas of Durham students’ needs.

Professor Gill Nicholls, who takes up the post in January 2007, is currently Director of the King’s College London Institute of Learning and Teaching, Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts and member of the Institute of Physics. Gill’s career has focused on research into learning and teaching, and with her teaching experience spanning both schools and university, it gives her a very significant insight into students’ learning and teaching needs. Her previous posts included the University of Surrey where she was Professor of Education. An expert in professional learning and science education she has written extensively on professional development in education, including her most recent book ‘The Challenge to Scholarship’ (2005). Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, in her role as the new Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience, Gill will lead University-wide policy areas on student experience, teaching and learning, quality assurance, delivery methods and learning resources as well as working closely with Durham Students’ Union and the student body. All of this will contribute to Durham’s aim of providing an internationally distinctive learning experience combining academic excellence with the personal development that comes from college life. On her appointment Gill commented: “Not only is Durham one of the most beautiful cities in England, surrounded by stunning countryside, it is, I believe, one of the best universities in the UK in terms of the student experience. When I first came to Durham I was impressed by how much more the University offers students than the majority of other universities. “ Alex Duncan, President of Durham Students’ Union commented: “This is great news for Durham students. We now have a dedicated champion for student experience reporting directly to the top. Being a student at Durham is a fantastic experience and this position should ensure it stays that way and improve it even more.” Sir Kenneth Calman, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University said “At Durham the student experience is a key part of our strategy for success. Our graduates are well rounded and confident individuals, equipped with the vision and the skills to take them wherever they want to go. Gill’s experience in teaching and learning and her professional yet personable approach really stood out in the competitive selection process for this new and important role and I look forward to welcoming her to our community in January.”