University of Bristol: The PSF drives the attainment of Bristol’s educational aims
A key goal of Bristol’s Vision and Strategy 2022-2030 is: ‘Attracting and inspiring students from across the globe, with a distinctive education offering, innovative teaching and research-rich curriculum and student experience’.
This case study shares insights from interviews with Professor Tansy Jessop, Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) for Education and Students, at the University of Bristol, she has sought to foreground staff development through fellowships, generating enthusiasm and embedding them as a normal part of practice at Bristol. Fellowship is a requirement in Bristol’s academic promotion framework, and many staff volunteer to be mentors to others rather than see Fellowship as a one-off. The Bristol Institute for Learning and Teaching (BILT) plays a pivotal role in leading accredited provision designed to develop staff expertise in line with the Vision and Strategy.
The university's accredited programme - CREATE - has helped developed an interdisciplinary community of practice where academics from a comprehensive university learn from one another across disciplines, and share ideas and innovations as part of their scholarship of teaching and learning.
Her advice for senior colleagues looking to achieve similar results is:
- Use the PSF 2023, and especially its Professional Values, to maximum effect in the development of staff expertise aligned to strategic priorities, institutional values, and educational aims.
- Create enthusiasm around fellowships and teaching qualifications, and embed these within your promotions framework to demonstrate how important they are.
- Grow active fellowship communities which promote scholarship, collaboration and innovation.
- Use the accreditation process as an opportunity to revise and renew practice.
Read the full case study and one page summary below.
