University News Last updated 19 March 2009
Staff and students at Birmingham City University are celebrating after winning awards from the prestigious Design and Technology Association (DATA).
Penny Bailey, Senior Lecturer in Design and Technology won the ‘Teacher Training Design and Technology' Award, while Clare Bridge, a third year BA Primary with QTS student specialising in Design and Technology has won the ‘Outstanding Newcomer to Design and Technology' Award.
Penny was nominated for the award by Wesley Till who himself won a DATA award in 2002. Of Penny's success, Wesley said: "As well as being very passionate herself about Design and Technology, Penny seeks to constantly pass on this enthusiasm to both students and other colleagues.
"In her current role at Birmingham City University, Penny is subject leader for D&T, where she quickly gained the respect of both staff and students in being someone who has a contagious enthusiasm for our subject. As well as developing the subject study aspect of the degree courses, Penny has also developed an inspiring ICT programme.
"Penny constantly encourages students to 'think outside the box' to become confident designers of the D&T curriculum and not to be afraid to design a curriculum that intrigues and excites pupils. Penny's enthusiasm for the subject never fails to inspire children, trainees, teachers and colleagues alike.
Penny commented about her award: "I was very honoured to be given an award by the national subject association for design and technology for my work with trainee teachers. Moving from secondary teaching into lecturing in higher education was a huge leap for me, so to hear that others think I may be on the ‘right track' was extremely pleasing."
Student award winner, Clare Bridge, also commented on her success. She said: "I was extremely honoured to be nominated for the award and was completely shocked, overwhelmed, ecstatic, excited and proud that I actually won. It is an amazing achievement and yet it still seems so surreal, I still can not believe it!"
The Design and Technology Association is the recognised professional organisation representing all those involved in D&T education and its associated subject areas.
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