Excellence in teaching staff award

To recognise an academic staff member’s excellence in teaching in Otago Polytechnic’s education programmes.

Awarded to: Ches Pritchard, Design
Commendations: Rachel Byars, Applied Business, Jean Patterson, Midwifery

Ches is a lecturer in Fashion, in the Department of Design.  Key comments in this nomination were “although Ches came to OP with a teaching qualification from Manakau, he decided to continue his teaching and learning development by commencing the Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning.  This engagement with teaching practice continues to enrich his teaching profession even more, including leading discussions and engaging with colleagues in debating and dialoguing teaching practice, and raising the level of interest in teaching and learning for the whole school”.

Ches was strongly supported by colleagues in his application and by students who found his teaching to be inspiring - helping students think outside the box, and helping students find answers to their questions themselves.

Ches is clearly a leader in teaching and has a strong ability to engage with students and staff alike supported by a well thought out view and philosophy on his own practice.

Commendations are also given to Rachel Byars - Applied Business and Jean Patterson - Midwifery, who will receive Certificates of Commendation from Phil Ker, Chief Executive.