Hi Kate, what does a typical day look like during term time:
During term time, I teach all the physical geography labs with undergraduate and masters students. These classes involve learning how to testing soil, water and air quality. I have labs covering basic practical science skills all the way to using research-grade analytical kit to analyse water and soils. I also go on the student field trips to York and Tenerife.
Ok, so how does that differ to a typical day outside of term time?:
A lot of Geography students choose to do their final year dissertation project using the lab, so over the summer months I am usually training them up on the methods and instruments they need to use. I also do some academic research work, I’m currently involved in a project measuring toxic metals in dust swept up from along roadsides in London.
You've been awarded a Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), can you tell me what that means for a technician?
This is a qualification that you can apply for if you teach in higher education. You have to produce a portfolio detailing how you meet all of the HEA criteria covering teaching design practices, feedback, continuing professional development, and equality and inclusion. It’s a great way to demonstrate your commitment and skill in teaching, and is a recognised qualification in HE across the UK and increasingly internationally. It also means I get to put the letters FHEA after my name!
Do many technical staff apply for HEA fellowship, or is this mainly aimed at academic staff?
HEA fellowship is aimed a lot towards staff on academic contracts, indeed it is a part of probation for many new starters. However, anyone who teaches in Higher Education is welcome to apply for it, and King’s covers all the costs and gives lots of support to those who do apply. If you think you don’t lead on teaching enough to qualify for Fellowship, they also have a category of Associate Fellow, that requires a smaller portfolio and is suitable for anyone who assists in HE teaching.
Congratulations then! Do you have any plans for the summer outside of work?
I’m planning a climb up Scafell Pike in July, I did Snowdon last year and really enjoyed it!
Quick fire
What dish can you cook the best?
My butternut squash risotto has never been turned down
Do you have any pets?
I have 2 lovely cats, Stevie and Padme. We also have a Giant African Land Snail in the lab called Barry!
Netflix Recommendation
I’m going to go with an Amazon Prime recommendation and say Deadloch, it’s great!
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