Visiting Professor speaks about the future of education
THE University’s Institute of Education welcomed its first Visiting Professor to the Bognor Regis Campus as Professor Jeanne Keay of the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) spent an initial two days meeting staff and exploring ways to support future development.
Professor Keay is Vice-Principal & Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) of UWS and has a wealth of experience in higher education, with a focus on Education and Sport, as well as a background in teaching Physical Education in schools.
Professor Keay has led national level policy development in teacher education and previous posts include Assistant Director of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), Head of the Carnegie Centre for Physical Education at Leeds Metropolitan University, and Head of Initial Teacher Training and Dean of Education at the University of Roehampton.
Dr Jon Spence, Director of the Institute of Education, said: “I am delighted that Professor Keay has agreed to work with us at this exciting time as we broaden the scope and ambition of the University of Chichester’s work in the field of Education.
“Jeanne’s extensive expertise in higher education as well as her active research interests, particularly in Professional Development and in Communities of Practice, will support us in developing the right structure and research culture for the Institute’s staff and students.”
Professor Keay added: “I am very excited about the opportunity to work with colleagues in the Institute of Education on a unique approach to combining great teaching with innovative applied research.
“Initially, this is a ‘getting to know you’ visit – I hope to meet as many staff as possible and look at how my research interests in education can be put to valuable use here.
“This may include supporting individuals in identifying the next steps in their careers, developing a community to drive shared understanding and practice with a natural flow of research, and clarifying the future direction that is right for Chichester.
“A fascinating aspect of the Institute of Education’s future is its developing work with the University’s growing Multi-Academy Trust.
“This makes possible a fresh and different relationship between the University and schools that is very exciting.
“With academies included in a community of practice there are new opportunities for University and school staff to work to clear, common goals, students can increasingly take their skills into schools while pupils can visit the University and be inspired.
“It’s a win-win situation all round and creates a distinctive profile for the Institute.”
To find out more about the Institute of Education at the University of Chichester visit www.chi.ac.uk/institute-education.
