Queen Mary University Celebrated Nationally for Transformative Teaching

Pedagogical Innovation Recognised: Queen Mary Wins CATE and NTF in 2025

In a significant endorsement of pedagogical leadership, Queen Mary University of London has been nationally recognised for its outstanding contributions to teaching and learning. At the 2025 Advance HE Awards, the university’s staff secured both a Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence (CATE) and a National Teaching Fellowship (NTF), two of the UK’s most prestigious accolades in academic practice. These awards, conferred through the National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) and the CATE programme, honour individuals and teams whose work transforms university teaching and inspires future generations of students. Together, they underscore Queen Mary’s commitment to inclusive, innovative, and high-impact learning across disciplines.

Notably, the Queen Mary Peer-Led Team Learning (QM-PLTL) team received the CATE Award for its pioneering, student-centred approach. Led by Professor Tony Michael, Deputy Vice-Principal for Education, the interdisciplinary team comprises peer leaders, academics, and professional services staff from the university’s three faculties, working in partnership with the Queen Mary Academy. Since its inception in 2018, the initiative has trained over 235 peer leaders and engaged more than 2,500 students across multiple faculties and schools.

Drawing on research from the United States, the QM-PLTL model is particularly effective in supporting students from underrepresented and less affluent backgrounds. By removing hierarchical barriers and empowering trained student peer leaders to facilitate collaborative sessions in place of academics, the programme fosters inclusive learning environments. It has demonstrably improved academic outcomes and contributed to sectoral knowledge through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Moreover, the team’s influence extends beyond Queen Mary, with members actively supporting other UK universities in adopting peer-learning models. Professor Michael currently serves as President of the US-based PLTL International Society, while Dr Sally Faulkner chairs its international research committee, further reinforcing the university’s global leadership in pedagogical innovation. In parallel, Dr Michael Page, Reader in Medical Education at Queen Mary’s Institute of Health Sciences Education, was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship for his transformative work in clinical education. He developed the UK’s first Master's level degree apprenticeship in clinical education, which has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. Designed for doctors, dentists, senior nurses, allied health professionals, and academics, the programme enhances professional development and strengthens medical education provision at Queen Mary. Dr Page’s collaboration with 14 local organisations exemplifies the university’s commitment to sectoral partnership and educational advancement.

Professor Stephanie Marshall, Vice-Principal (Education), commended both initiatives for their dedication, innovation, and impact. She praised the QM-PLTL team for cultivating collaborative learning communities and Dr Page for his pioneering contributions to professional education. Reflecting on Queen Mary’s 240-year legacy of delivering high-quality education to East London and beyond, she emphasised the university’s continued focus on meeting the diverse needs and aspirations of all students, including those from international backgrounds. This dual recognition not only affirms Queen Mary’s excellence in teaching and learning but also strengthens its standing within the UK higher education landscape. It highlights the university’s role in advancing teaching quality, supporting staff achievement, and leading educational innovation, demonstrating how research-informed practice can deliver meaningful outcomes for students while shaping the future of professional development across the sector.

Editor’s Note:

Queen Mary University of London has been recognised nationally for its strong commitment to teaching and learning. Staff received two major honours at the 2025 Advance HE Awards: a Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence and a National Teaching Fellowship. These awards show how the university supports students through innovative teaching and inclusive learning environments. The QM-PLTL team and Dr. Michael Page have significantly enhanced student outcomes and impacted teaching methods across the educational sector. Their work exemplifies Queen Mary's dedication to high-quality education, continuous professional development, and collaborative initiatives. The university remains a leader in developing enriching learning environments for both students and staff. 

Skoobuzz believes such recognition proves that when universities prioritise innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration, they not only transform student success but also set benchmarks for excellence in higher education.