City St George’s academic wins prestigious teaching excellence award • City St George's, University of London

Professor Irene Ctori receives National Teaching Fellowship for her outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in UK higher education

By Mr George Wigmore (Senior Communications Officer), Published Thursday, 8^th August 2024

Professor Irene Ctori, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies in the School of Health & Psychological Sciences (SHPS) at City St George’s, has been named a National Teaching Fellow by Advance HE.

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

Professor Ctori was recognised for her work as an Associate Dean in SHPS, where she holds strategic leadership responsibilities for undergraduate and pre-registration programmes, enhancing education quality and learning outcomes, guiding and supporting students, and preparing them for their professional endeavours. Her efforts to support students and improve the learning environment in the School have been based on her commitment to inclusive education. In addition, Professor Ctori is dedicated to staff development, enhancing the educational profile of colleagues in higher education and establishing clearer indicators for achievements in education and professional practice.

With a professional background in optometry, Professor Ctori has nearly 30 years of clinical experience and 15 years of teaching experience. Her professional and academic journey is marked by significant contributions to the advancement of the optometry curriculum nationally, transforming learners into proficient healthcare professionals.

Over the last few years, Professor Ctori has also held key roles in the College of Optometrists. Recently elected as Vice President of the College of Optometrists in March 2024, her roles underscore her commitment to setting national and international standards in professional practice, optometric education, training, and assessment. Overall, Professor Ctori's continuous contributions highlight her dedication to advancing knowledge, professional practice, and educational initiatives on a broader scale.

Speaking about the award, Professor Ctori said:

“Winning the National Teaching Fellowship is an incredible honour and highlights my commitment to teaching and learning at City St George’s, University of London, as well as my contributions to optometric education, advancing knowledge and professional practice. I am dedicated to enhancing the student experience and improving outcomes, and this recognition inspires me to continue striving for excellence in higher education. I also hope to contribute to the wider sector and make a national impact by sharing best practices that benefit both students and educators across the country.”

Alison Johns, Advance HE Chief Executive, said:

“I am delighted to announce this year’s winners of the National Teaching Fellowship and Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence.

“Advance HE has the privilege of running these prestigious awards on behalf of the sector and we are extremely proud of the way these teams and individuals enhance the quality of teaching in higher education.

“We know that higher education has the power to transform lives but this doesn’t happen by default. Outstanding teaching is the result of knowledge, commitment, passion, energy and creativity. All of these 2024 winners demonstrate these attributes and put them into practice with excellent results.

“It is vital for student success that we invest in higher education teaching and promote the value of excellence. Congratulations to each and every one of you for this prestigious prize.”

Alongside Professor Ctori, Angela Kubacki – Reader, Head of Clinical Communication and Dean for Student Conduct and Compliance at City St George's – has been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship this year. Overall, 55 higher education professionals have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to excellent teaching. The 2024 awards ceremony will take place in Edinburgh on 3 October.

On 1 August 2024, City, University of London and St George’s, University of London merged to become City St George’s, University of London. Read more about the merger agreement.

Hashtags