Halkirk lecturer honoured in student awards

A lecturer from Halkirk has been honoured by students in the fourth annual University of the Highlands and Teaching awards.

Jane Macintosh, a HNC/D business, administration and accounting course leader and lecturer at North Highland College UHI, won the ‘best personal academic tutor’ category. She was nominated for her tireless support and approachability.

One student explained: “Jane’s door is always open and I have never appreciated it more than this year. I have dropped my studies to part-time/ flexi so I am trying to balance my HND alongside working full-time. She really goes the extra mile to make sure you achieve your goals. I couldn’t do it without her. Thanks Jane.”

Jane Macintosh said: “I am delighted to have won this teaching award and feel honoured to be recognised in this way by students. Supporting and encouraging students to develop their skills is very rewarding and it is wonderful to know that students have acknowledged the support they are provided with.”

Organised by UHISA, the UHI Students’ Association, the awards recognise excellence in eight categories. The other winners were:

  • Most inspiring lecturer, Reverend Hector Morrison, Highland Theological College UHI
  • Outstanding student support, Martin Cameron, Highland Theological College UHI
  • Most engaging online tutor, Dr Elizabeth Ritchie, Centre for History
  • Most engaging video conference tutor, Dr Edward Graham, Lews Castle College UHI
  • Best assessment feedback, Matt Sillars, Inverness College UHI
  • Best preparation for the workplace, Catriona Johnston, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI
  • Best dissertation or research supervisor, Dr John Howe, Scottish Association for Marine Science UHI

The University of the Highlands and Islands was one of the first institutions to work with the Higher Education Academy and National Union of Students to introduce student-led teaching awards. They have now been adopted throughout Scotland and were introduced to the rest of the UK last year. The university is now aiming to have the country’s first student partnership agreement, which will cover joint working by staff and students on issues of common interest such as student health and wellbeing, in place by this summer.

UHISA president Katrina Paton said: “The awards celebrate and highlight teaching excellence at the university, enabling students to commend the dedication of staff. We received a record number of nominations this year which demonstrates how much students value being able to provide positive feedback.”

Dr Iain Morrison, dean of students at the university, added: “These awards are tribute to the hard work and excellence of the staff. All those nominated, as well as the eventual winners themselves, have demonstrated commitment to our students and a high level of professional expertise that has been rightly recognised by those who appreciate it most.”

The winners will all receive a trophy and certificate.

Media contact

Susan Szymborski
Communications officer
01463 279222
susan.szymborski@uhi.ac.uk