Apply for a University Teaching Fellowship
04 March 2024
This year’s University Teaching Fellowship (UTF) scheme is now open for applications.
The University Teaching Fellowship is a prestigious award for colleagues who have demonstrated individual excellence, and made a significant contribution to the development of teaching and learning at the University.
Only a small number of people are granted the accolade each year, which is awarded for life.
University Teaching Fellows play an active role in the development of teaching and learning practice at the University.
The scheme, overseen by the Centre for Quality Support and Development (CQSD), is open to all teaching and teaching and learning support staff at the University.
Advice from the 2023 cohort
Professor Hong Yang (School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science), Dr Elizabeth Houldsworth (Henley Business School) and Daniela Standen (International Study and Language Institute) all became University Teaching Fellows in 2023. Here is their advice for anyone considering applying this year.
Professor Hong Yang
"I strongly encourage colleagues to consider applying for the UTF. Although the application process may be time-consuming, it embarks you on a valuable journey, fostering deep reflection on your teaching and learning experiences. It also presents a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from UTFs.”
“Being welcomed into the UTF community has been an invaluable experience for me. It has offered me the opportunities to learn from peers, share experiences, and significantly enhance my teaching practices, all to the greater benefit of my students.”
Dr Elizabeth Houldsworth
"I was initially daunted by the application process to become a University Teaching Fellow, so I realise colleagues might find it challenging. My advice is to view it as a developmental process, if your initial application is not successful, the feedback will be supportive and help improve your application for next time.
"As well as the personal recognition, I have really appreciated joining the UTF Community of Practice – it’s great to have a chance to share ideas and discussions with like-minded colleagues and to hear about new innovative practice.”
Daniela Standen
“I was delighted to receive the award, which is hardly surprising. What I was surprised about is how valuable the process of application itself can be. For me, the award came after a failed first attempt. However, the feedback I received was really valuable and helped me not only to grow as a teacher, but also to become better at reflecting on my own practice and communicating it to others.
"If you are passionate about teaching and want to share it with others, give it a go! It is not easy but it is as much about the process as the outcome. One piece of advice: read the applications of others, how you structure your case can make a difference.”
How to apply
Visit the scheme page to find out more about the scheme, including the criteria and guidance for applications, and to complete the application form.
The closing date for submissions is 17:00 on Monday 20 May 2024.
If you have any queries, please email cqsd-tandl@reading.ac.uk.
Online session: Applying for a University Teaching Fellowship
Colleagues are invited to join a webinar hosted by CQSD on Monday 25 March from 13:00-14:00. In this session, you will learn key information about the scheme, the application process and the criteria.
Recent University Teaching Fellowship award winners will share their experiences and some tips for drafting an effective application.