Professor Sarah Stevenage awarded prestigious National Teaching Fellowship in recognition of her impact on higher education

Professor Stevenage, who has taught at Southampton for 30 years, is an expert in cognitive psychology. She has also provided leadership in education as Associate Dean Education for her current and previous faculties since 2012.

In her teaching, Professor Stevenage uses a ‘human book’ approach to give a highly personal account of the impact of dementia. She explained: “It involves students learning from a human with lived experience, rather than from a book. The ultimate goal is to support students to become active questioners and compassionate professionals, rather than passive recipients of knowledge.”

As Associate Dean, Professor Stevenage has been instrumental in shaping the educational innovations of others. Five years ago, she launched the Latitude Prize, which funds projects that cross disciplines, demonstrate impact, and rely on student co-design. She has championed the use of simulation teaching to develop clinical skills, the development of virtual field trips, resources to support mental health education, and a deep understanding of the black student experience.

Of the fellowship, Professor Stevenage said: “No one can achieve anything on their own, so I owe this award to those fantastic colleagues who have been willing to accompany me on the journey to provide an educational experience that we and our students can be proud of.”