The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has been shortlisted in three categories of higher education awards.

The University has been commended in the categories: ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community’, ‘Outstanding Research Supervisor of the Year’ and ‘Most Innovative Teacher of the Year’ in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2021.

This year the successful nominees were picked from a record haul of nearly 600 entries.

In the award entry for ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community’ the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was highlighted which included the mobilisation of 20 final-year medical students and more than 300 nursing students to graduate early and join the medical frontline.

The work of UCLan’s Dr Clive Palmer, Senior Lecturer in Sport, PE and the Outdoors, was recognised in the ‘Outstanding Research Supervisor of the Year’ category.

He has been described as an inspirational research supervisor and during lockdown created an online community: Clive’s Learning Shack, as a hub, meeting place and resource centre to support his students and staff.

Commenting on the nomination Dr Palmer said: “It is an honour to be shortlisted for this prestigious Times Higher Award, and with it, such a privilege to have supervised and be working with currently such talented people on their research projects.

“I am over the moon to receive this external recognition for my efforts in the postgraduate learning experience and wish to thank colleagues for their generous support.”

Highlighted within the ‘Most Innovative Teacher of the Year’ category, was the work of Dr David Wareing, Lecturer in Medical Microbiology with students saying he “really helped bring it to life.”

On learning of his nomination Dr Wareing said: “I am absolutely delighted. I am also really grateful for the support of colleagues and the wonderful feedback from students on how they have enjoyed the learning experiences that we have created for them.”

This year’s awards will be presented at the Hilton London Metropole on 25 November. The full awards shortlist can be viewed online.