Thursday 15-05-2025 - 14:41

The Teaching Awards 2025 Ceremony took place on Wednesday 14th May 2025 in the Re:Union Bar. The event was hosted by Laiba Tareen, Vice President GSBS, with an opening address from Caroline Bysh, Pro Vice-Chancellor Engagement. Our thanks to the 319 students who submitted a nomination for 198 staff. Congratulations to everyone who were nominated, to those shortlisted and to the winners. 

Terrific Teaching

Ben Shepherd (GSBS)

GCU students repeatedly described this year’s winning staff member as ‘enthusiastic’, ‘understanding’ and ‘genuinely caring’. Many praised their commitment to student success, with comments noting that ‘No question is ever too silly’ and ‘They always take time to help everyone’. Students highlighted their engaging delivery and practical examples, making even difficult topics accessible. One student wrote ‘They made me feel comfortable to ask for help and encouraged me to believe in myself’. Another added ‘Their passion and energy are contagious, they make the class something to look forward to’.

 

Fantastic Feedback

Christina McIntyre (GSBS)

GCU students described this year’s winning staff member as someone who provides feedback that is not only ‘timely’ and ‘clear’, but also ‘thoughtful’ and ‘motivating’. Students highlighted the usefulness and depth of the feedback, often noting how it helped them understand where they could improve. One student shared ‘Their feedback is always specific and actionable, which really supports my development’. Another added ‘They make you feel like they genuinely care about progress, their comments always encourage and build confidence’. The student also remarked ‘The feedback helped me not just academically, but also gave me clarity on how to apply it practically in future placements.’

 

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Jane Guiller (SHLS)

GCU students described this year’s winning staff member for their ‘innovative’ and ‘inclusive’ approach to teaching. Someone who uses ‘Quizzes, polls and collaborative activities’ noting that these tools not only made learning more ‘engaging’ but also ‘deepened their understanding of complex material’. Students appreciated the staff member’s ‘consistent integration of technology, such as digital platforms and multimedia content, which made accessing course materials seamless and flexible’. One student shared ‘They always find ways to bring the subject to life using real-world examples and interactive tools’. Another commented ‘Their course is the perfect blend of structure and modernization, always evolving with the times and relevant to our future careers’.

 

Sensational Supervision

Nigel Craig (SCEBE)

A GCU student described this year’s winning staff member as someone who is ‘exceptionally supportive’ and offers ‘timely, insightful feedback and unwavering encouragement’. Students noticed this staff member’s ‘ability to foster academic confidence while also providing personal support throughout their research journey’. One student shared ‘Their feedback is always constructive and helps me think critically about my work.’ As one student put it ‘They have an incredible ability to simply complex topics and help me refocus when I feel overwhelmed, their support has been a steady anchor throughout my studies’.

 

Super Support (Teaching Staff)

Kirsteen Lang (SHLS)

GCU students repeatedly described this year’s winning staff member as being consistently ‘approachable’ and ‘accessible’, ‘both in-person and online’. Many remarked that ‘their door is always open,’ and that ‘they make a sincere effort to be present and attentive to student needs’. This staff member was frequently described as ‘exceptionally kind,’ ‘uplifting,’ and ‘reassuring,’ with students noticing ‘the significant positive impact on their mental health and academic confidence’. One student shared ‘There were always there when I needed help, no matter how small the issue’. Another student stated ‘Their support kept me going. Without them, I honestly don’t know if I would have made it through my final year’.

 

 

Super Support (Non-Teaching Staff)

Osman Rafiq (Technician - Digital & Health)

GCU students described this year’s winning staff member as someone who is not only ‘incredibly proactive’ but also ‘consistently goes out of their way’ to support students. They were praised for their dependable presence both ‘online and in-person’, with a student commenting on their ‘reliability and genuine approachability’. Their caring nature and willingness to help were recurring themes, with students saying that felt ‘listened to,’ ‘encouraged,’ and ‘valued’. To sum it up perfectly, students say ‘Their constant support helped me build resilience and gave me the confidence to push forward when I doubted myself’.

 

 

Inspirational Individual (SHLS)

Artaban Jeldi

Students consistently highlighted how this nominee had instilled self-belief, motivation and genuine passion for learning. One student shared ‘They encouraged me to challenge myself and gave me confidence in my academic journey’. This lecturer demonstrates ‘creativity’ and ‘responsibility’ through engaging lessons enriched with real-life scenarios and visual aids that deepen understanding. They are known for adapting their teaching to support individual learning styles, as one student noted, ‘If something isn’t clicking, they try a new way, and it always helps.” Their approach embodies both the university and Students’ Association values, championing inclusion, confidence, and a student-led atmosphere by ensuring every student feels heard and valued. From role play to thought-provoking debates, their sessions bring learning to life with energy and fun.

 

Inspirational Individual (GSBS)

Mauricio Silva

Students mentioned a lecturer who acts as a role model radiating enthusiasm and authenticity in every aspect of their teaching. They are known for creating a space where students feel safe to ask questions, try new things, and express themselves. Students remarked on how this lecturer brings both compassion and humour to their sessions, offering not just knowledge but a sense of belonging. One student shared, “They make every effort to include all voices in the room, and it’s clear they genuinely care about us as people, not just as students.” Whether it’s through inventive learning activities or meaningful one-to-one conversations, this individual fosters a culture of confidence, creativity, and kindness, truly living the values of both GCU and the Students’ Association.

 

Inspirational Individual (SCEBE)

Michael McGuire

Students described this year's winning recipient as someone who stands out not only for their academic excellence but for the meaningful, lasting impact they have had on students’ lives. Students describe them as a beacon of encouragement, someone who “truly listens” and “makes time for everyone, no matter how busy they are.” Many reflected on how their confidence grew simply because this lecturer believed in them. As one student expressed, “They didn’t just help me understand the material, they helped me understand my own capabilities.” Another shared, “Their support made me feel like I wasn’t alone in this journey. They remind us that we are capable and worthy of success.” Their approach to teaching is not only inclusive and student-led, but deeply rooted in integrity and responsibility. Students praised their dedication to adapting lessons to meet everyone’s needs, and their willingness to go beyond the syllabus to make the material engaging and relevant. One nomination mentioned, “They bring such passion to every session, it’s infectious. You leave the classroom not just knowing more, but feeling inspired to do more.” Another commented, “They always take time to check in, and that means so much. It’s more than teaching; it’s mentorship.”

 

All nominees from this year can collect their limited edition mug from the reception on Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Pictures from this spectacular night can be viewed on our Facebook or Instagram page.