“Reading about innovative and impressive practice in the sector is both interesting and inspiring. My particular concern is to find evidence of real innovation which might be transferable or offers a helpful model for others. I am looking for entries that demonstrate proven impact rather than claims of work in progress. One of the distinguishing features of the higher education sector seems to me a healthy mix of competition and collaboration and these awards nicely incorporate both features.”
Andrew West, director of student services, University of Sheffield
“It not unknown for universities and colleges to draft an application that is very wide-ranging in the hope that it will somehow tick enough boxes or even dust off a submission from previous years. This may be a strategy of sorts but be warned – the judges are unlikely to be taken in, including by PR speak!
“Like any application it’s best to stay focused, meet the criteria and provide the evidence. It’s not the Booker prize but there’s some great initiatives and innovation out there, more than worthy of an accolade or two. Even if you’re not a winner you can be assured that your efforts have been carefully considered and that if you gain an award, others will have any opportunity to reflect as to whether your ideas could be applied to their institution or students.”
Pam Tatlow, chief executive, million+
“It’s important to focus on the criteria for each award, what was significant and innovative (why the institution should be recognised now), and the extent of the impact. It was sometimes challenging to compare projects that had vastly different levels of resource, and that led to interesting levels of debate.”
Kate Hunter, executive director, CASE Europe
I really enjoyed judging the Guardian higher education awards last year. It was a great to get together with others to look at what is happening in our universities and colleges. So many were exciting and inspiring – a real insight into the ongoing innovation in our universities.
I’d encourage this year’s judges and entrants to do more of the same. Tell us what is different about what you are doing, how or why it’s working well and how it’s helping to change the world around us.
Andy Westwood, chief executive at GuildHE
“The awards look to recognise leadership and change in each of the subject areas. Universities submitting applications should demonstrate work in the category which is above and beyond the ordinary, ideally with demonstrable impact. Judges will look to assess each application for this.”
David Ruebain, chief executive, Equality Challenge Unit
Tweets from last year’s entrants:
Sunderland University: “We won!! Over the moon we’re so proud to be supported for the work in this area #GdnUniAwards2014”
Aviation skills: “Proud to be nominated with our partners Middlesex University for a prestigious #GdnUniAwards2014”
Lucian J. Hudson: “Double-whammy of top awards for ‘outstanding’ @OpenUniversity #OUAnywhere #GdnUniAwards2014.”
Join the Higher Education Network for more comment, analysis and job opportunities, direct to your inbox. Follow us on Twitter @gdnhighered.
