Dr Niamh Plunkett reflects on Atlantic Technological University (ATU) becoming the first university in Ireland to be recognised as an Accredited Institution of Advance HE.
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has reached a significant milestone, becoming the first university in the Republic of Ireland to be recognised as an Accredited Institution of Advance HE. This prestigious accreditation solidifies ATU’s commitment to teaching and learning excellence and underscores its dedication to staff professional development.
A transformational achievement
ATU’s ENGAGE Programme, which supports and recognises staff excellence in teaching and student learning support, played a crucial role in this accomplishment. This accreditation enables ATU to assess and award Advance HE Fellowships, promoting a culture of professional learning and reflective practice among educators.
The achievement was spearheaded by Dr Niamh Plunkett, Head of Teaching & Learning at ATU (Sligo), whose leadership has been instrumental in driving professional development initiatives across the university.
“This is a proud moment for ATU and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our academic staff,” said Dr Plunkett. “The ENGAGE Programme has already transformed teaching practices at ATU, with over 60 staff members awarded Advance HE Fellowships and many more actively engaged in the process. This accreditation cements our commitment to excellence in teaching, ultimately ensuring our students receive the highest quality learning experience.”
Recognising excellence in staff development
Dr Plunkett also acknowledged the pivotal role played by Dr John O’Callaghan, Academic Writing Instructor at ATU (Sligo) and ENGAGE Programme Lead, in securing this recognition.
“Dr O’Callaghan’s expertise and dedication were invaluable in this process. His meticulous work in preparing and overseeing our accreditation submission ensured that ATU met the rigorous standards required”.
A commitment to educational excellence
The ENGAGE Programme is central to ATU’s strategy for professional development, ensuring that staff continuously enhance their teaching practices. The university’s leadership sees this accreditation as a vital step in linking staff development with student success.
ATU President, Dr Orla Flynn, welcomed the news:
“I am delighted to celebrate ATU’s designation as an Accredited Institution of Advance HE for our ATU ENGAGE Fellowship Programme. This recognition highlights our dedication to supporting staff professional development in inclusive teaching and learning. It is especially significant that ATU is the first university in the Republic of Ireland to achieve this milestone. Our first Strategic Plan, published in autumn 2024, emphasises Enabling Education, and this accreditation illustrates our commitment to making a real impact in this area.”
Registrar & VP Students, Teaching & Learning, Dr Michele Glacken, further highlighted the significance of this accreditation for ATU’s students:
“Securing approval as an Accredited Institution of Advance HE for our ATU ENGAGE Fellowship programme clearly signals ATU’s intent to ensure students receive a quality teaching and learning experience that will enable them to achieve success. ATU is committed to staff development in teaching practice and offers a range of accredited and non-accredited programmes to support academic staff at every stage of their careers. Regardless of their level of teaching experience, our university provides opportunities for professional and personal growth, with the ultimate aim of enhancing student learning outcomes.”
Karen Hustler, Head of Accreditation and Excellence Awards at Advance HE added:
“Advance HE is delighted to award Teaching and Learning Accreditation to Atlantic Technological University (ATU). ATU is our first accredited institution in Ireland and this achievement reflects the success ATU has had with supporting its staff to achieve one of our four categories of fellowship in recognition of their excellent learning and teaching practices. ATU is now part of our network of 181 accredited member institutions around the world. We are very proud to be working with ATU and wish the team every success as they launch the new ATU ENGAGE scheme.”
Leading the way in higher education
ATU’s accreditation as an Advance HE Accredited Institution represents a defining moment for higher education in Ireland. As the university continues to champion innovative teaching and professional development, this recognition reinforces its dedication to excellence—benefiting both staff and students for years to come.
Advance HE accredits continuous professional development (CPD) programmes which are delivered by higher education providers both within the UK and internationally, aligning professional development to the UKPSF.Find out more
What’s your Fellowship story? Join Fellows from around the globe for the #FestivalofFellowship – a celebration of educational excellence and transformation. Share your journey and connect with Fellows worldwide using #FestivalofFellowship. Find out more.
