Celebrating educational leadership at Kent
Over the past two years, 30 University of Kent colleagues have completed the Leadership in Education and Academic Practice (LEAP) programme convened by the Centre for the Study of Higher Education (CSHE). Congratulations to our latest cohort, including staff representing each of the University’s six divisions.
LEAP is designed to support the career development of academics on ES&PP contracts who either currently hold or aspire to leadership positions. LEAP participants are supported to identify local scholarship and leadership opportunities and develop a CAPstone project of strategic importance to their school or division. Through their projects, participants apply the skills and knowledge gained throughout LEAP, making tangible contributions to learning and teaching.
Feedback on the programme has been positive. Participants report that interacting with colleagues across the university and accessing necessary tools and guidance through the LEAP programme has helped them to navigate their role successfully. Working on their CAPstone projects has allowed them to have a measurable impact within their divisions, creating positive changes for students.
The range of projects undertaken by LEAP participants over the past two years has been impressive and diverse, including various curriculum development and student support initiatives. The range of projects demonstrates the breadth of leadership challenges our colleagues are addressing and the significant impact they are making within their respective domains.
CSHE are now accepting direct applications for LEAP 2023-24. If you are on an ES&PP contract and interested in enhancing your leadership capabilities, developing a project of strategic importance, and taking significant strides in your career progression, we encourage you to join us. Through a series of eight, interactive two-hour online seminars across autumn and spring terms, LEAP offers a supportive and transformative learning experience, equipping you with knowledge of and skills in scholarship and leadership. As we pivot to a teaching excellent, student-centric university, educational leadership from those working most closely with students is more important than ever.
To express your interest in participating in LEAP 2023-24, please email the Programme Leader, Dr Julia Hope, at j.r.hope@kent.ac.uk.