National Teaching Fellowship 2017

A leading University Clinical Lecturer and Honorary Consultant in Public Health has picked-up a major award in recognition of her outstanding “impact on student learning and the teaching profession”.

Dr Ilona Johnson from the School of Dentistry has secured a National Teaching Fellowship from The Higher Education Academy in recognition of her outstanding achievements in learning and teaching.

Head of the School of Dentistry, Professor Alastair Sloan said: “This award is richly deserved and reflects Ilona’s outstanding contribution to dental and healthcare education.

“I am very proud of her achievements, which have not only been recognised nationally but continues to ensure the School has innovative, inspirational and reflective programmes to provide our students with the best educational experience in which they can excel.”

Dr Johnson is widely recognised for the quality of her teaching and innovative approach to learning – especially her use of multimedia, technology and novel approaches to teaching.

As Deputy Director for Assessment, she’s also introduced new standard setting and quality assurance approaches and in 2015 secured an Enriching Student Life Award as the most Innovative Staff Member.

Dr Johnson becomes only the eighth academic from a UK dental school to hold such a Fellowship and joins Professor Shelia Oliver as the second National Teaching Fellow based in the School of Dentistry.

Professor Shelia Oliver, School of Dentistry, who also holds a National Teaching Fellowship added: “I am thrilled to hear that Ilona has been honoured with the award of the National Teachers Fellowship by the Higher Education Academy.

“Ilona is a truly passionate and innovative educator and I have seen her commitment to improving the quality of teaching and the student experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate level to great effect.

“Ilona is undoubtedly an inspirational teacher for both our teachers and, of course, our exceptional students. This is a highly prestigious award given to those who exhibit excellence across a breadth of education, which Ilona richly deserves.

“I am confident that Ilona will be able to use this award and represent the Higher Education Academy to further enrich education both nationally and internationally.”

The National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) is run by The Higher Education Academy.

National Teaching Fellows are selected from the three participating nations - Wales, Northern Ireland and England - and come from across mission groups and from a broad range of subject areas.

Commenting on her award, Dr Johnson said: “It an extraordinary honour to receive this award. I am passionate about teaching and supporting our students to achieve their potential.

“For me, this award is a testament to the work and enthusiasm of a great many staff who are continually working to improve the quality of teaching.

“I am lucky to work with so many wonderful people who have bravely said yes to me trying something new or working a little differently to improve teaching and learning.

“I feel very privileged to have to have the support and encouragement of colleagues in my School and in the University and of course, my family.

“I am also very fortunate to be able to work with so many exceptional and enthusiastic students who are not only willing to learn but are also willing to help shape their teaching.

“On a personal level, this Fellowship will enable me to develop further.  I have seen first-hand how Professor Oliver, who was previously recognised as a National Teaching Fellow, inspires others to improve education.

“I am aiming to follow her example, encouraging others to follow their passion for education."

On gaining the award, each Fellow has a role to support the enhancement of learning and teaching in both the institution and the sector.

Dr Johnson will receive her Fellowship at a ceremony in London on the 1^st November.