A UWS education expert has received one of the UK higher education sector’s most prestigious teaching awards.

Ian Gillan, Creative and Academic Development Consultant at UWS, has been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship by Advance HE in recognition of his outstanding contribution to teaching and student learning.

He becomes the third member of staff to receive this award and the 13th in Scotland.

Launched in 2000, the National Teaching Fellowship Scheme celebrates individuals who have made an exceptional impact on higher education teaching and learning – with around 55 fellowships awarded throughout the year.

Speaking of the award, Ian said: “I am thrilled to be named as a National Teaching Fellow.

 

My work is shaped by my commitment to social justice and the life-changing potential of education. That’s why I am especially proud to achieve this award at UWS, Scotland’s leading University for widening participation.

 

“Higher education is a team sport and all of my work is collaborative. While my name might be on the award, it is a collective achievement that I share with my brilliant colleagues.

“I look forward to harnessing this award to further improve learning and teaching for the benefit of students at UWS and beyond.”

National Teaching Fellows become part of a UK-wide community whose members share their knowledge and help strengthen teaching and learning within their institutions and across higher education.

Professor Rachel Cragg, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning, Teaching and Student Success at UWS, said: “Ian’s National Teaching Fellowship is a well-deserved recognition of his commitment to education and the difference his work has made to students and colleagues.

 

To become only the third UWS colleague to receive this award is a remarkable achievement and reflects the quality, creativity and care Ian brings to learning and teaching. We are extremely proud of Ian and delighted that his contribution has been recognised at a national level.

 

Ian will formally receive the Fellowship at Advance HE’s 2026 Teaching Excellence Awards ceremony at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh on Thursday 24 September.