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National Teaching Fellowship for ARU academic

Published: 5 August 2021 at 13:00

Professor Catherine Lee

Professor Catherine Lee receives award for her outstanding impact on education

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) academic Professor Catherine Lee has been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship for her work in providing inclusive teaching and learning.

The National Teaching Fellowship (NTF) Scheme, run by Advance HE, began in 2000 and celebrates and recognises individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in higher education.

In her role as Head of the School of Education between 2016 and 2019, Professor Lee transformed ARU’s portfolio of Education courses, culminating in ARU topping the Guardian league table for Education in 2020.

Now Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Professor Lee was previously a teacher and school leader and is committed to inclusion. 

Her research has highlighted the damage caused by Section 28, a piece of legislation introduced in the 1980s that prohibited local authorities and schools from discussing LGBTQ+ relationships or using LBGTQ+-friendly teaching materials. The law was only repealed in 2003.

Working with schools in the region, she has also created the Courageous Leaders programme, the UK’s first LGBTQ+ leadership programme that has so far helped around 60 teachers to achieve headteacher or other senior roles.

Professor Lee said:

“I am proud to join the community of National Teaching Fellows, as the scheme is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusivity in higher education, values that run through the heart of my work, and that of ARU. 

“I am lucky to work with our future teachers, nurses, midwives, doctors, paramedics and social workers, roles all committed to transforming the lives of those who are most vulnerable. There can be few more rewarding jobs.

“I am extremely grateful to have been supported by inspirational role models and mentors at ARU, who have helped me progress in my career. I intend to use the Fellowship to support other academics committed to inclusive teaching and learning, and am excited for this next chapter of my career.”