Buckinghamshire New University is celebrating after being shortlisted for two awards in the Oscars of higher education – the THE Awards 2019.

The Times Higher Education Awards, now in their 15th year, gains hundreds of entries from universities across the UK and recognise outstanding work and innovation.

Nominees were announced today and Bucks has been shortlisted in two categories, Outstanding Technician of the Year and Outstanding Contribution to Leadership Development.

This is the first year that the awards have been opened wider to recognise excellence in both academia and the professional services.

Sam McCormack, Technical Manager: Simulation, Psychology & Performance at Bucks, said she was ‘excited and thrilled’ to be shortlisted for Outstanding Technician of the Year.

She has pioneered several innovative teaching methods which add authenticity to students’ learning during her eight years at Bucks, including moulage - the art of applying mock wounds - and dementia simulation.

Sam was the first simulation technician in the UK to become a Registered Scientist with The Science Council and her Dementia Simulation won Teaching Innovation of the Year at the 2018 Student Nursing Times Awards.

She said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted in the Outstanding Technician of the Year category, especially significant as this is the first time THE Awards have had a technician category.

“This coincides with the university becoming a signatory for the Technician commitment, which aims to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research.”

The University’s HR Director Alexandra Bode-Tunji said she was ‘delighted’ that Bucks had been shortlisted for the Outstanding Contribution to Leadership Development THE Award.

Its innovative leadership programme focuses on developing skills for all levels of staff across the University. It includes development opportunities, academic leadership development supported by a competency framework, and changes to the University’s appraisal process.

Alexandra said: “This is a positive reflection on the work we are doing at Bucks to improve leadership capability, shift ways of working and support our employees in delivering a great student experience.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Braisby said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted in these two categories, which reflect Bucks New University’s commitment to leadership development and the outstanding calibre of technical support we provide.

“This success reflects positively on the excellent working environment we have at Bucks and its positive impact on the learning experience we provide for our students.”

THE editor John Gill said: “I am delighted to say that the ‘Oscars of higher education’ go from strength to strength. With 23 categories this year, we’re also showcasing more exceptional stories than ever before, and it’s a real honour for us to shine a spotlight on all those who have made it as far as these shortlists – their stories deserve much wider circulation."

The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Thursday 28 November 2019.