Tim Roberts

National Teaching Fellow 2012 Over the last twelve years Tim Roberts has developed the UKs only progressive HE programme for Circus Arts. This consists of a Foundation Degree in Circus Arts, a top-up BA(Hons) Degree in Circus Arts and a Postgraduate Certificate in Circus Arts. His interest, as well as his expertise, lies in the creation of quality circus arts education at HE level and the role that it can play in the development of a sector as a whole. For example, graduates from the programme have not only gone on to create innovative contemporary circus performances, but also populate every aspect of the circus sector - from teaching in youth activities to creating companies and administrating other circus events. Tim's connections with the circus arts sector has also led to increased employment opportunities for circus arts graduates in the UK, several of whom are now touring across the country and in international companies. His experience in the sector has been acquired through his long professional career as a juggler and comedian across Europe and in the US as well as his involvement in HE circus arts education in France. Tim's contribution to the art form is also recognised internationally through his involvement with the European Federation of Professional Circus Schools (FEDEC) where he has held the role of President for the last four years. With FEDEC he is involved in creating a pan-European teacher training programme for Circus Arts as well as lobbying for increased mobility opportunities for all those involved with the arts; from students to teachers, through to artistic directors, educational directors and administrators. Circus Arts have long been considered an art form on the margins of society but Tim firmly believes that through quality teaching, and the advantages that the HE sector provide, it can find a place again at the heart of the cultural landscape of the UK.