Staff and students recognised at annual UPSU SSTAR Awards

A select handful of academics and course representatives have been recognised for making an exceptional difference to students at Plymouth University.

The third annual UPSU Student and Staff, Teaching and Representation (SSTAR) awards presentation took place on Thursday 21st March at the Student Union, organised by students with the support of the SU.

Voted for entirely by students, the awards recognise staff members and dedicated course representatives who have made an exceptional difference to students’ experience at the University.

More than 400 nominations were received and the panel of students and UPSU staff had the difficult task of selecting a winner for each of the 12 award categories.

Steph Driscoll from the Student Union said: ‘The awards highlight what we as students consider to be inspirational teaching and support, and fantastic representation. It is an opportunity for students to give something back to those staff and students that have gone the extra mile and to celebrate those that have made the subject or course that we study a special one.’

Professor Pauline Kneale, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Teaching and Learning, said: ‘These annual awards provide a fantastic opportunity for students to show their appreciation for the support they receive from academics and fellow students, and illustrates how highly they regard their peers. I’d like to congratulate everybody involved.’

The winners were as follows:

Most innovative use of teaching methods -Oliver Quinlan

Best placement support - Pete Smithers

Excellence in championing career development - Lee Whittock

Outstanding support staff (university) - Nick Crawley

Inspirational teaching - Andy Phippen

Outstanding Support staff (faculty and school based) - Richard Kenyon

Best feedback - Chris Harris

Most dedicated dissertation/project supervisor - Armani Shepherd

Best course rep - Karen Bond

Outstanding personal tutor - Simon Lock

School rep of the year - Tim Murray