What is your role, and what are you responsible for?

I’m a Policy Advisor (Assessment and Regulations), providing support on assessment policies and practice. I’m Assistant Secretary to the Senate Sub-Group (SSG) that considers and approves undergraduate and postgraduate taught awards recommended by departmental Boards of Examiners, and approves validated awards for students at University College Birmingham. I’m also Assistant Secretary to the Student Learning Experience and Engagement Committee (SLEEC), which considers and coordinates initiatives aimed at improving all aspects of student learning experience and engagement.

How long have you worked at Warwick, and what did you do before that?

I joined EPQ (formerly Teaching Quality) and Warwick almost ten years ago, after a career break raising my two children. Before that, I worked in the Civil Service in London, and for the Citizens Advice organisation.

What projects are you currently working on, and what’s coming up?

I’m undertaking desk-based research into UK higher education practices relating to the release of results and non-engagement, as part of contributing to the upcoming Reform of Academic Regulations project. Next week, I’m attending a virtual Assessment Festival run by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) to learn more about the future of all things assessment, including the use of generative AI, diverse assessment approaches, and future methods of recording student achievement. (Bookings are still open online here!)

What does a typical day look like?

Managing emails and monitoring the respective committee resource accounts for which I’m responsible is part of my daily duties. I also work with colleagues in Student Records to process for approval the UG and PGT Decision Record Logs (DRLs) received outside of the usual examination Boards of Examiners periods.

What’s your favourite thing about your role?

I’ve inherited the title of ‘longest serving member of EPQ’! The team members and desk sizes have definitely changed over the years, but I’ve always enjoyed working with a very supportive and collaborative team in the various roles I’ve undertaken.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy spending time outdoors – walking, playing tennis, growing vegetables in a plot in my garden. I also love growing sweet peas.

What is your favourite book, and your favourite film?

I enjoy reading autobiographies – Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela has stayed with me as a favourite read. City of God, Little Miss Sunshine and The Departed are in my top five favourite films.

If you could teleport anywhere right now, where would you go?

The hilltop village of Mougins in south-eastern France, for the views – and a glass of a good rosé.

Cats or dogs? Tea or coffee? City or countryside?

Dogs – we’re slowly deliberating dog ownership. I recently received some helpful advice, as someone now with teenage children – owning a dog means that at least someone will be pleased to see you when you get home! My daily routine starts with a mug of English Breakfast tea, followed by coffee throughout the day. And I’d go for the countryside, preferably with a view of the sea in the distance, although I do enjoy a city break if I get the chance.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Don’t be afraid to try new things. Oh, and don’t bleach your hair!