A NEW category has been added to the inaugural Herald Higher Education Awards to highlight the importance of the experience of students.

 

The Enhancing Student Learning Award, supported by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), will be made to the university or college which has made a clear contribution to improving the learning experience of students.

Judges will expect initiatives to have involved students or be student-led with evidence demonstrating how they have enhanced the learning experience.

The category is in addition to the existing Student Support Team of the Year award which will look at initiatives which have helped students gain the maximum benefit from their study by providing advice and assistance on personal matters, family, health, financial issues or career advice.

Rowena Pelik, director of QAA Scotland, said: "We are delighted to support these awards, which recognise and celebrate best practice within Scottish higher education. The sharing and embedding of good practice is a key attribute of the sector and is vital to improving the student learning experience."

The Herald Higher Education Awards were launched last month to recognise the outstanding contribution made by colleges and universities across Scotland.

The awards, in association with the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), comprise 13 categories which look at how institutions develop innovative materials and methods in their teaching and research.

Supported by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, City of Glasgow College, technology provider Jisc, the Scottish Funding Council and QAA, the awards will also examine how colleges and universities market themselves, use technology, engage with employers, support students and promote economic sustainability.

Professor Craig Mahoney, principal of UWS, said: "The Scottish higher education sector makes a hugely important contribution to the country's economy and we are delighted to be supporting these important inaugural awards which celebrate the successes and achievements of the sector."

Entries are invited by visiting www.herald-events.com/heawards before the deadline of Thursday, May 21. For more information on entering the 2015 awards or to discuss sponsorship opportunities please contact Claire Reid on 0141 302 7319.

Categories

Higher Educational Institution of the Year

Lifetime achievement award

Student Support Team of the Year

Academic Support Team of the Year

Enhancing Student Learning Award

Outstanding Contribution from a Student

Research Project of the Year

Outstanding Employer Engagement

Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community

Sustainability Award

Campaign of the Year

Widening Access Award

Innovation Technology Excellence Award