A lecturer from Keele University’s School of Medicine has received a prestigious national award for her efforts to empower students and improve accessibility in medical school teaching. 

Dr Sarah Aynsley, a Reader in Bioscience, has received the prestigious National Teaching Fellowship from Advance HE, in recognition of her work in Keele’s sector-leading Medical School. 

The National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) recognises, rewards and celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession. 

Dr Aynsley, who teaches Immunology across Keele’s Medicine programme, received the award for her work to not only challenge traditional approaches to medical education in her practice, but also to broaden the curriculum to empower students with the skills and awareness they need to thrive in the global landscape. 

Fuelled by her belief that graduates should be prepared to use their knowledge for the benefit of society, Dr Aynsley has introduced novel practices into the teaching of medicine to improve accessibility and inclusivity, becoming a leader in the use of gamification for learning and supporting and empowering peers to try new approaches.  

She has redesigned the way immunology is taught, not only receiving hugely positive comments from students who felt the changes better reflected their individual learning styles, but also seeing an increase in attainment from students. 

She has also undertaken work to embed sustainability in medical education at Keele, working with student groups to ensure that medical graduates are prepared for working lives in a society facing global challenges. 

Dr Aynsley said: "Supporting learners has always been at the centre of everything I do; I am committed to improving accessibility of education, and challenging preconceptions to empower my students. I feel honored to receive this award.”

Professor Kristyan Spelman Miller, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) at Keele, added: "I am thrilled that Sarah's excellence in teaching has been recognised through this important national award. Her innovative approach to pedagogy, her commitment to inclusion and accessibility in higher education, and her dedication to the professional development and welfare of her colleagues make her an inspiring teacher and colleague. We are very proud of her achievements."