The CREATE (Cultivating Research-rich Education and Teaching Excellence) team at the University of Bristol champions collaborative excellence in academic development through a shared commitment to care, inclusion and the belief that fantastic teaching deserves to be celebrated. Bringing together expertise from the Bristol Institute for Learning and Teaching (BILT) and People Development (HR), the team has transformed professional learning for colleagues across the university, demonstrating the power of collective leadership, creativity and partnership across institutional boundaries.
The team is led by Dr Hannah Grist (Head of CREATE and Senior Lecturer in Academic Development) and Ros O’Leary (Head of BILT and Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching). They are joined by academic developers Fiona Hartley, Louise Howson, Julian Kendell, Dr Karen Kenny, Emilie Poletto-Lawson and Dr Aisling Tierney, whose complementary expertise spans inclusive education, curriculum design, assessment, AI and personal tutoring. Their work is made possible by the wonderful team of administrators in People Development, drawing on the professional expertise of Sarah Armstrong, Katherine Curmi, Monique Jose, Corinne Lamplugh and Jon Tilley, whose administrative support ensures every aspect of CREATE runs with care and attention to detail.
The team leads the University’s compulsory Advance HE-accredited professional development programmes, including the CREATE Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP) and CREATE Fellowship Scheme, alongside tailored development for colleagues in teaching-focused and educational leadership roles. Supporting more than 1,750 staff annually across 30 schools and three faculties, within a university community of over 9,000 staff and 33,000 students, CREATE also works in partnership with academic departments, student partners and alumni to embed excellent teaching and foster a community of practice around teaching and learning.
By combining diverse expertise with curiosity, generosity and care for all involved, the CREATE team has reshaped the University’s approach to academic development. Their collective leadership has strengthened teaching practice, expanded opportunities for professional recognition and created sustainable, institution-wide impact. Through scholarship, collaborative networks and sector leadership, the team’s work informs and inspires academic development nationally and internationally, while helping colleagues rediscover confidence, connection and joy in their teaching and learning practices.
Advance HE recognises there are different views and approaches to teaching and learning, as such we encourage sharing of practice, without advocating or prescribing specific approaches. NTF and CATE awards recognise teaching excellence in a particular context. The profiles featured are self-submitted by award winners.
