Middlesex University recognised for its high-quality teaching by new government scheme

In the government’s new Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which has been established to recognise and reward high-quality teaching by UK higher education providers, Middlesex University has been awarded Silver.

The University was particularly praised for its commitment to valuing and rewarding teaching and supporting and enhancing student engagement. High levels of student satisfaction were also commended by the TEF panel.

Professor Andrea Dlaska, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Learning and Innovation, said: “We are delighted that the quality of our teaching has been recognised in the country’s first TEF awards.

“We have prioritised innovation and quality in our teaching in response to the emerging skills needs of the London, UK and global economies. We endeavour to make sure that students can apply their academic knowledge to real life situations, and understand how this knowledge and practice will be relevant when they enter the world of work.

“We have also strengthened the student voice and extended opportunities for students to provide feedback, as well as investing further in our peer learning scheme. Our students have initiated their own Teaching Awards and, in the 2017 round, almost 1,000 nominations were received recognising the expertise and dedication of our incredible staff at Middlesex.

Commenting on the new framework, Professor Dlaska added: “While we welcome the TEF’s focus on teaching quality, we believe that the measures employed and the purpose of the exercise require further consideration and are therefore pleased that TEF will be reviewed under the Higher Education and Research Act.”

Middlesex prides itself on pioneering innovative teaching in every sphere of university life. Last year the University opened the new state-of-the art Ritterman Building, which promotes STEM and collaborative working. Students benefit from a vibrant, modern learning environment equipped with the latest facilities and technology.

Earlier this year, the UK’s first Cyber Factory training facility was installed in Middlesex. The new facility allows students to develop the skills and expertise needed to work at the forefront of emerging technologies and prepare them for what is being called Industry 4.0 – a fourth industrial revolution which will see a seismic shift in the way technology is used in the workplace.

And at the end of 2016, students studying music at Middlesex were the first in the country to be trained to register their own tracks using blockchain technology. Moving forward, the University is committed to investing in new technology and innovative teaching to benefit the student experience and their future prospects.