DIRECTOR OF PLYMOUTH INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION - RECRUITMENT PACK - AUGUST
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RECRUITMENT PACK
DIRECTOR OF
PLYMOUTH INSTITUTE
OF EDUCATION
AUGUST | 2021
1
Contents Welcome
Welcome 3
“
About the University of Plymouth 5
About Plymouth Institute of Education 7
About the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business 9 I am delighted that you are interested in the post of the Director of the
Plymouth Institute of Education. This is an exciting time to be joining us. The
Role: Director of Plymouth Institute of Education 10 University has ambitious plans, and we are looking for the right individual to
How to apply 13 play a critical role in helping to deliver our 10-year strategy through strong
and innovative academic leadership.
University strategy and goals 15
Education and the student experience 17 Key to this will be academic credibility and At the University of Plymouth, it is in our nature
a personal commitment to the potential and to be pioneering – be that in our teaching or in
Research and impact 18 success of the Institute. The ability to recognise our research. We strive for the highest quality
opportunities to do things differently and to in all that we do – pushing boundaries isn’t just
University structure 21 enter new markets, not least international, will encouraged, it is expected. The University has
be important. You will also play a key role on the a proud heritage as an institution that makes a
Our campus and other facilities 23 Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business executive difference.
team.
Enterprise, entrepreneurship and knowledge exchange 27 Now is the time to build on this, through our
You will join us as we have embarked on our new students, researchers and staff. Every part of our
Civic engagement and our role in the community 29 ten-year strategy – ‘University 2030: A Future of community is engaged in the pursuit of excellence
Excellence ’. This strategy is built upon and seeks and we ignite our students’ imagination to
Sustainability at Plymouth 30 to maximise our current core strengths, including challenge and drive innovation forward. This is
our location, the history and priorities of our a fantastic opportunity for a committed leader
Why Plymouth? 33 city, our leading-edge education and research to contribute to the future of a successful
facilities, and our strong partnerships in Plymouth Institute and an ambitious institution and if you
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 37 and beyond.
“
are interested in joining us and being part of our
exciting journey, then we want to hear from you.
Professor Judith Petts CBE
Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive
University of Plymouth
Smeaton’s Tower, Plymouth Hoe
2 3
About the
University of Plymouth
Our roots go back over 150 years, but it is our contemporary relevance
that gives us our energy and direction. Our research is committed to
addressing the multidisciplinary challenges of today and tomorrow, and
informs an educational experience that places emphasis on practical,
real-world experiential learning.
The University seeks to advance knowledge and We are a top 50* research university with
transform lives through excellence in teaching clusters of world-class research across a
and learning and world-class research, sustained wide range of disciplines including marine
international impact, a stimulating student science, environmental and earth sciences,
experience and as a civic university focused on engineering, cybersecurity, medicine, robotics
supporting our local community and businesses. and psychology.
With over 18,000 students, and a further 6,000 Named one of the top 25 institutions globally
plus studying for a Plymouth degree at partner and 1st in the world for marine research and
institutions in the UK and around the world, teaching in the Times Higher Education Impact
and over 139,000 alumni pursuing their chosen Rankings 2021, we have one of the highest
careers globally, the University has a growing number of Higher Education Academy National
global presence. Teaching Fellows.
Three times winner of the Queen’s Anniversary
The University is committed to delivering a
Prize for Higher and Further Education, we
high-quality, research-led and professionally
continue to grow in stature and reputation.
relevant portfolio of programmes. It delivers,
Our 2019 Prize recognises our pioneering
for example,the largest training portfolio for
research in marine microplastics pollution in
nursing and the allied health professions in the
the oceans and its impact on the environment
South West.
and changing behaviour.
We are among the emerging elite of modern
higher education institutions, the first ‘post-
92’ institution to have its own medical and
dental schools.
*Research Fortnight Research
Power League Table 2014.
4 5
About Plymouth Institute
of Education
Based within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business, Plymouth
Institute of Education (PIoE) works with a range of partners to offer high-
quality research, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. PIoE’s
wide-ranging areas of expertise put us right at the heart of educational
research nationally and internationally.
Studying with us Outside Formal Education, Inclusion, Research
and Education Policy, world-leading academics
PIoE has been educating teachers since 1946. work with colleagues, doctoral students,
Undergraduate courses offer many opportunities international fellows and practitioners, promoting
for work-based learning, and lead on to a vibrant and participative research culture.
postgraduate study in a range of educational and
health settings. International opportunities with
At undergraduate level, we offer early childhood PIoE
studies, education studies, or for those who PIoE recognises that developing close links with
want to teach, the Bachelor of Education (with students and colleagues from other countries
Qualified Teacher Status). Over 90% of our BEd and cultures is an essential part of supporting
graduates go straight into employment after intercultural understanding and of underpinning
they have graduated. By studying with us, our the development of a shared understanding
students embark on what could be the first steps of the benefits of education to the individual
of a ‘learning journey’ within Higher Education, and the societies in which we live. We welcome
leading them on to postgraduate study on a PGCE international collaboration and have set up a
(Primary or Secondary specialisms), masters range of links with colleagues and students from
degree and in time, a professional doctorate at other countries to share experience and explore
postgraduate level (EdD Education) or PhD. ways of improving professional practice.
Our research Our current and developing international links
include the International Masters Programme
Our researchers conduct research in nurseries,
for professional practitioners seeking to
schools, colleges and universities, but also in
improve their practice and achieve an MA
multiple informal contexts: in the home, at work,
qualification, study programmes for trainee
in nature, in the community, in arts and leisure,
teachers, doctoral-study programmes, research
and in volunteering and activism.
projects to investigate and develop practice, and
We have strong research links and networks consultancies to support the development and
across the world and a wide range of externally improvement of educational provision.
funded national and international research
projects. Through our four nodes of research
excellence: Children and Families, Learning
6 7
About the Faculty of Arts,
Humanities and Business
Through the provision of creative learning we build a culture of ingenuity,
diversity and distinctiveness, a culture that has far reaching benefits
that go beyond the faculty, beyond the University and reach out into the
community, industry and economy at large.
The Institute of Education sits in the Faculty Bringing together a community, the faculty works
of Arts, Humanities and Business. The faculty hard for its students be they in the studio, a
transcends the provision of degrees and seminar room, or in extra-curricular activities.
doctorates, lectures and workshops by:
The faculty has substantial research excellence
• working with schools and colleges to raise and international reputation across the
aspirations disciplines of English, creative writing, history,
education, contemporary arts practice, art
• offering space for the development of
theory and history, theatre, dance, performing
creative business ideas through the
arts and music, science and technology, digital
Formation Zone
arts, photography, art and technology, curatorial
• fostering collaborations both within the practice, architecture and environmental building.
University and with external partners through
With over 6,000 postgraduate and research
Creative Cultivator
students in our international partnership, the
• bringing a diverse range of cultural events to Faculty of Art, Humanities and Business offers far
the people of Plymouth and the South West ranging interdisciplinary research expertise.
through The Arts Institute.
The Schools
The Faculty comprises four schools:
• School of Art, Design and Architecture
• School of Society and Culture
• Plymouth Institute of Education
• Plymouth Business School
8 9
Role: Director of Plymouth
Institute of Education
Role summary Knowledge, education and training
• Provides regular feedback and support for direct
reports/staff as appropriate.
Every member of staff contributes to delivering the distributed within the Institute is undertaken • A track record of successful academic leadership
• Looks for potential in their staff, encouraging and
University’s mission to advance knowledge and effectively and to the standards required by the as Professor or exceptionally as Associate
supporting them.
transform lives through education and research. University. Professor.
• Holds individuals and teams to account for
As a Senior Manager, you will make a major • Motivates and formally manages own direct • A good working knowledge of institutional
delivering required results.
contribution to the life and work of this University. reports effectively, in line with the University’s management systems and relevant legislation.
The Director role is primarily responsible for expectations, policies and procedures. • Cultivates an empowering and inclusive One Team
• Has basic financial and people management
formulating and operationalising academic strategy, environment.
• Identifies and develops future potential in staff training (for example University of Plymouth
ensuring appropriate plans and resources are in
through succession planning. Management Basics Training or equivalent). Leads and operates amidst change and ambiguity
place for their delivery. Approachable and visible,
the Director brings confident leadership amidst a • Drives the financial sustainability of the Institute • Has knowledge of leadership development skills • Takes a longer term and bigger picture view.
context of rapid change within the University and ensuring planning and forecasting on an ongoing (for example University of Plymouth Leadership
Higher Education sector as a whole. Essentials or equivalent.) • Can lead the development and delivery of plans
dynamic basis, securing the achievement of
and solutions for the future with and through
agreed performance targets including finance
Continued research and teaching activity is
and research grant and tuition fee income. Experience colleagues/teams.
assumed in line with the role holder’s substantive
• Makes a significant contribution to the running • Has the confidence to take considered risks.
academic post and as agreed with the Executive • Pursues opportunities to diversify income
and strategic direction of the University through
Dean upon appointment. All activities undertaken and increase revenue for the Institute/Faculty/ • Can adapt plans and respond to emergent
designated committee, academic leadership or
within this role will be compliant with the University’s University. situations/information/needs.
project activities.
policies, including Health and Safety, Equality and
Diversity, Ethics, Data Protection etc. • Ensures the effective delivery of high-quality • Builds confidence and inspires others along the
• Be a mentor.
teaching and the maintenance of academic way so that individuals/teams/the University are
Key accountabilities standards. • Undertakes appraisals for staff for example successful.
University Performance Development Review.
• Translates and communicates University strategy • Enhances the quality and volume of research by • Identifies and supports new ways of doing things.
and policy as it applies to the Institute, students encouraging and enabling demonstrable research • Chairs committees.
achievement within the Institute. Builds and secures value from relationships
and staff. • Works on University wide projects.
• Ensures that the Institute’s responsibilities to • Builds trust and credibility.
• Leads the development, direction setting, • Achieves results with and through others amidst
implementation and continuous review of the students in respect of admission, teaching, • Takes a diplomatic yet firm approach to issue
progression, pastoral care and employability are context of change/uncertainty.
Institute’s strategic plan in accord with delivering resolution.
met.
against the overarching Faculty priorities and Leadership skills and capabilities • Works in partnership seeking mutual benefits.
University’s strategic imperatives. • Ensures compliance with academic regulations,
Demonstrates self-leadership • Consults and includes others as appropriate
quality standards and processes in relation
• Engages with colleagues within and across own within and beyond their own area of responsibility.
to student recruitment, admissions, teaching, • Self-aware with the ability to self-regulate their
Faculty and works collaboratively across the
learning and assessments. approach appropriately.
academic leadership community of the University • Shows empathy – listens and responds
as a whole in order to advance Institute/Faculty/ • Ensures all activities undertaken are in line with the • Resilient with personal strategies for sustaining appropriately to others.
University priorities. University’s policies on information governance high performance.
Uses sound business judgement
and security including those relating to the
• Works collegiately as a member of the Faculty • Open to constructive feedback and committed to • Considers the best use of resources and ways of
protection of personal data under Data Protection
Executive. their own continuous development. reducing costs to improve efficiency.
legislation (or GDPR).
• Leads, engages and motivates staff within • Takes responsibility for health and safety in the Develops and empowers others to deliver • Makes evidence/data informed decisions in a
the Institute, creating an environment for high Institute in line with the University’s Health and transparent manner.
• Sets clear expectations of performance and
performance and ensuring formally delegated Safety Policy. standards, and communicates these clearly to a
leadership and management responsibility • Makes decisions in a One Team way – accountable
range of audiences.
to self, the University and our students.
10 11
How to apply
Key dates
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 8th September 2021.
The final selection process with the University is scheduled to be held on Monday 27th September 2021.
In order to apply, please submit a comprehensive CV along with a covering letter which sets out your
interest in the role and encapsulates the aspects of your experience relevant to the required criteria.
Please include current salary details and the names and addresses of three referees. Referees will not
be approached until the final stages and not without prior permission from candidates.
All applications will receive an automated response on submission.
All candidates are also requested to complete an online Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form which
will be found at the end of the application process. This will assist the University in monitoring selection
decisions to assess whether equality of opportunity is being achieved. Any information collated from
these forms will not be used as part of the selection process and will be treated as strictly confidential.
Personal data
For detailed information on how we process your personal data, please review our privacy policy at
https://www.berwickpartners.co.uk/privacy-policy/
In line with GDPR, we ask that you do not send us any information that can identify children or any of
your sensitive personal data (racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs,
trade union membership, data concerning health or sex life and sexual orientation, genetic and/or
biometric data) in your CV and application documentation. Following this notice, any inclusion of your
sensitive personal data in your CV/application documentation will be understood by us as your express
consent to process this information going forward. Please also remember not to mention anyone’s
information or details (for example referees) who have not previously agreed to their inclusion.
Contact details
For further information and details on how to apply, please visit www.berwickpartners.co.uk/
opportunities/assignment/82015
For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisor at Berwick Partners:
Elizabeth James
Partner
Direct: +44 (0)121 654 5924
Mobile: +44 (0)7715 993 443
Email: elizabeth.james@berwickpartners.co.uk
S
812
12 13
University strategy and
goals
The University’s mission – advancing knowledge, transforming lives – is
supported by a vision to be renowned for high-quality and internationally
leading education, research and innovation, which makes a positive
difference to people’s lives. That mission and vision, combined with a truly
global outlook, has created an inclusive and inspiring university community,
with students as partners on their journeys of discovery.
Strategy 2030 sets two ambitious institutional goals to be realised by the
end of the decade: to be a top 30 university in the UK, and top 250 in the
world. This mission is being realised by focusing our strategic activities
around four core principles.
One Team: working, planning for and delivering of work over the ten-year period, supported
a shared vision, underpinned by a strong sense by key performance indicators. The plan will
of collegiality. In line with its refreshed vision be responsive to changing circumstances and
and strategy, the University will monitor its key opportunities over the decade.
performance indicators on a regular basis and
adjust actions and priorities as necessary to 1) Deliver excellent education and research
ensure it remains on a successful track. • Ensure an innovative education portfolio
• Deliver programme excellence
Quality: striving for the highest quality in • Support strong research foundations and
everything we do in terms of entry standards, build research power
our teaching quality and student experience,
graduate prospects, research volume and quality. 2) Nurture outstanding students and staff
• Provide a distinctive South West coast
Reputation: building our institutional
experience preparing graduates for the
reputation through confidence in our
world
pioneering contributions, excellence in
• Attract, develop and retain excellent staff
education and research, socio-economic
impact, and thought leadership. 3) Drive global connectivity that makes a
difference
Sustainability: achieving sustainability by
strengthening our finances, developing • Achieve influence and impact through
our reputation, enhancing our services and significant industry and business
enriching our environment. partnerships
• Maximise reach through strategic and
Three strategic priorities underpin our Strategy exciting institutional partnerships
for Excellence supported by a fourth enabling
priority. Each priority has high level objectives Enabling priority
and will be delivered through a detailed Invest to ensure a leading-edge, sustainable
Implementation Plan which defines the key areas university.
The University’s ten-year vision, University 2030: A Future of Excellence can be found at:
plymouth.ac.uk/strategy
14 15
Education and the
student experience
Very few higher education institutions can match our record for consistently
being awarded National Teaching Fellowships (NTF) across the spectrum
of subject areas – 27 since 2000 – and that success is founded upon
pedagogical research, a particular emphasis on practical ‘real world’
experiential learning and engagement throughout the institution. In addition
to our 27 NTFs we have also been awarded 13 Principal Fellows and 81 Senior
Fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA). Of University staff, 83%
possess a recognised teaching qualification, putting us in 12th position
nationally (HESA 2018/19).
The University provides an education and student In 2020, the National Student Survey continued to
experience that inspires students to make a reflect a trend of growing satisfaction among our
difference – while at university and beyond. students. We were in the top 25 universities for
overall teaching, rated above the sector average
The overarching aim is to deliver outstanding
for student satisfaction and have improved in
education that transforms lives, improving
rank, being now inside the top 50 and in the
local,national and global communities and
company of several Russell Group institutions.
supporting students to succeed and become
skilled graduates who are confident, resilient and The University prides itself on its culture of
can succeed after university. innovative teaching and learning, a culture
that is distinguished by active partnership with
The University prioritises experiential learning
its student community, and the researchrich
that enables students to learn by doing –
quality of the curriculum. We strive to provide
whether in the lecture room, laboratory or
an outstanding learning environment and
workshop, or through placements, internships or
a stimulating student experience, with a
businessrelated projects. In addition to learning
strong focus upon employability and personal
the theory and fundamentals of the subject,
development.
our students are immersed in their application
through real-world problem-solving, and hands- The University strategy focuses on growth in
on practice and skills development aligned to postgraduate and international students. It
employers’ needs. already has over 3,500 transnational education
students. It also looks to caplitalise on its
In the most recent Graduates Outcomes Survey,
extensive partnerships with Further Education
the University has seen over 95% of its graduates
colleges to further the strategic opportunities
in work or further study 15 months after finishing
that will arise from the policy direction towards
their course. Over 61% of those moved into highly
lifelong learning
skilled, well paid employment*.
Our teaching success continues to build on a
strong foundation of institution-wide academic
quality, innovative pedagogy and partnering with
our students.
16 17
Research and impact
Together with our partners, we are responding They were the first to study the ecological effects of
to the challenge of providing science, education, ocean acidification and warming, and now lead the
technological innovation and business leadership UK agenda for offshore renewable energy.
for tomorrow’s world.
Sustainable Earth Institute
Very recently we ranked 1st out of 379 institutions
globally in the Times Higher Education Impact The Sustainable Earth Institute is about promoting
Rankings 2021 for our work in support of Sustainable a new way of thinking about the future of our world.
Development Goal: Life Below Water, fortifying our It brings researchers together with businesses,
international reputation for outstanding marine and community groups and individuals to develop
The University has a proud reputation for conducting world-leading, maritime teaching, research and innovation. cutting-edge research and innovative approaches
impactful research across a broad range of fields. From health technologies that build resilience to global challenges. We
to heritage; marine sciences to medicine; psychology to sustainability. The sea is woven into the University’s heritage link diverse research areas across the University
And alongside these sustained peaks of excellence, the University is fast and this has resulted in a number of national and including science, engineering, arts, humanities,
international marine and maritime awards, most health and business.
developing a critical mass of expertise in emerging, exciting areas such notably two Queen’s Anniversary Prizes for Higher
as agri-technology, antimicrobial resistance, cybersecurity and creative and Further Education, presented in 2012 and 2020.
economies. Our researchers were the first to discover
microplastics and reveal their global distribution,
and significantly improved how to forecast
extreme coastal events and their impact on
Our University draws upon its location to maximise or internationally distinctive. Our cross-institution
coastal communities.
these research strengths. Across marine sciences institutes (Plymouth Institute of Health and Care
and maritime, we’re able to take advantage of the Research, the Marine Institute and the Sustainable
breath-taking natural environment of Plymouth Earth Institute) engage in cutting-edge research
Sound (the first National Marine Park), as well as that is truly interdisciplinary, addressing some of the
the many marine-related companies that are based world’s most pressing challenges.
here. To this natural laboratory we have added a
waterfront Marine Station, home to our expanding Plymouth Institute of Health and
fleet of research and teaching vessels, and a
nationally leading Marine Building, with its wave
Care Research
tanks and navigation centre, and we are developing From basic research discovering the causes of
a cutting-edge Cyber-SHIP Lab to tackle the issue of disease, through to evaluating novel ways of
cybersecurity in the maritime sector. delivering care to the most vulnerable people
in society, the Plymouth Institute of Health and
We are renowned for the transformational impact Care Research (PIHR) is a thriving community that
that our research brings. In 2018/19 alone, our conducts adventurous world-leading research with
research made significant contributions to the the explicit purpose of improving the health and
ongoing fight against plastic pollution in our oceans, care of the populations we serve. At the heart of
to advances in biomedical strategies to deal with PIHR’s mission is a desire to solve the problems that
antibiotic resistance and zoonotic diseases able to really matter to people.
jump from animals to humans, and to earth science
and sustainability issues, including soil erosion, the
need to recycle rare metals in mobile phones and
Marine Institute
sustainable construction. In November 2019, we Our Marine Institute is the first and largest such
were awarded our third Queen’s Anniversary Prize institute in the UK. It provides the external portal to
– the highest recognition for research excellence our extensive pool of world-leading experts and
in the UK – for our pioneering work in tacking the state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to understand
global issue of microplastics pollution in our oceans. the relationship between the way we live, the
Indeed, the term ‘microplastics’ came directly from seas that surround us and the development of
the University’s research in this area. sustainable policy solutions. We are integrating
our multidisciplinary expertise in marine and
We operate three Strategic Institutes which are maritime research, education and innovation to train
focused on core areas of research and knowledge new scientists, engineers, policy-makers, artists,
exchange where the University is world leading technicians and business managers of the future.
18 19University structure
The University is structured according to faculties, schools, research
institutes and professional service areas.
Faculties Research
There are three core academic faculties, The University focuses its interdisciplinary
supported by 13 schools (as at 1 September 2021). research activities on global challenges through
three Strategic Institutes, namely: the Marine
Institute, the Sustainable Earth Institute, and the
• Faculty of Arts, Humanities Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research.
and Business In addition, our Doctoral College works
Plymouth Business School with staff and students across all areas of
Plymouth Institute of Education the University’s research to ensure that our
School of Art, Design and Architecture postgraduate students and early careers
researchers are offered the best possible
School of Society and Culture
support and experience.
• Faculty of Health Professional services
Peninsula Dental School Supporting the faculties are the following
Peninsula Medical School professional service areas.
School of Biomedical Sciences • Academic Partnerships
School of Health Professions • Academic Registry
School of Nursing and Midwifery • Exeternal Relations
School of Psychology • Library and Digital Support
• Planning and Analytics Office
• Faculty of Science and • Research and Innovation
Engineering • Teaching and Learning
School of Biological and Marine Sciences • Estates and Facilities
• Finance and Sustainability
School of Engineering, Computing and
• Human Resources
Mathematics
• Technology and Information Services
School of Geography, Earth and
Environmental Sciences
20 21Our campus
and other facilities
The University has invested in state-of-the-art facilities that support its
teaching and learning and research ambitions. Our campus and extended
estate is full of distinctive features that enable students and staff to explore
new possibilities within their specialist fields.
Business integration and creative Charles Seale-Hayne Library
entrepreneurship The Charles Seale-Hayne Library is open 24/7 and
The University is increasingly investing in provides access to over 350,000 books, e-books
and promoting entrepreneurial skills as part and multimedia items, 14,000 current journal
of the student experience and is already in a subscriptions, and a wide variety of different study
strong position with an established network of environments and computing areas.
businesses that it engages with on a regular
basis, supporting knowledge exchange. Clinical Skills Labs
Our business connections ensure that our The University has Clinical Skills Laboratories
learning is relevant and exploratory and our at five of its sites – the main Plymouth campus,
emphasis on enterprise and sustainability John Bull Building, the Knowledge Spa, the Exeter
remains core. School of Nursing and Mast House.
The labs provide a realistic hospital ward setting
Brain Research & Imaging Centre for nursing, midwifery, medical and health
(BRIC) students to practise their key skills, and are fully
stocked with instruments and supplies typically
BRIC opened earlier this year, and is now the most found on a ward. From learning how to make a
advanced multi-modal brain imaging facility in hospital bed to carrying out injections on purpose
the South West. It provides the sea-change that built mannequins, the labs provide a safe and
is enhancing the quality of our research in human supervised environment for students to perfect
neuroscience. BRIC brings together 7 dedicated their clinical skills before going out on placement.
laboratories: an MRI suite with 3-Tesla scanner, a
Brain stimulation laboratory using both TMS and Cyber-SHIP Lab and ship
ultrasound, a pain neuroplasticity laboratory, a simulators
motor control facility which includes 3D motion
analysis, and laboratories dedicated to EEG and Bringing together an endlessly configurable host
MEG, Computational modelling and Cognition of connected maritime systems, the Cyber-SHIP
and Behaviour. Lab can replicate any real-world physical ship’s
bridge and connected operational technology.
BRIC has been developed through a partnership The lab’s platform complements the University’s
between the University, University Hospitals fleet of nine ship simulators and cyber ranges,
Plymouth NHS Trust and DDRC Healthcare and making researchers’ and crews’ simulator
is central to our wider aims of delivering rapid experience as realistic as possible.
improvements to health and wellbeing in the
region and beyond, supporting commercial The Cube
development and integrating research into Offering a support service to inspire student
University Open Day education at the highest levels. and graduate entrepreneurs, The Cube provides
advice at every stage of the entrepreneurial
journey. Supporting at every level from the
22 23ideas stage to a fully-fledged business, students Immersive Media Laboratory Science Park, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS teaching, research and social space, with areas to
and graduates are provided with workshops, Trust, Plymouth Medical and Technology Park. showcase staff and student work. Intercity Place
drop-in sessions, mentoring programmes and The Immersive Media Laboratory provides an The campus utilises the South West’s clinical will house inter-professional clinical skills facilities
competitions, facilitated by an expert team with opportunity to mix students, researchers and workforce and cross-sector skills base to develop for the University’s allied health professions
help from industry contacts and businesses. industry together in applied creative endeavours health innovation and enterprise capacity. and nursing/midwifery as well as additional
that will ultimately benefit society and the educational services, enabling staff to be working
Derriford Research Facility (DRF) economy, locally and globally. Campus masterplan together in one location to support the future
The University will be significantly investing health workforce.
The University recently invested in its biomedical We are spearheading the local development of
research infrastructure, providing state-of-the-art digital skills, resources, research and academic in its campus to ensure a first-class learning, The second landmark investment is our new
laboratories and a rich, collaborative environment programmes for digital and creative innovation. research and working environment befitting of a engineering and design facility which is being
for researchers and partners. The facility, located leading university. developed to inspire creativity, innovation and
The new facility will be open to testing new collaboration from our engineering and design
adjacent to the main medical building, John Bull, The campus masterplan consists of a number of
games, products, immersive experiences, pioneers of tomorrow.
is part of the University’s investment in medical proposed developments and refurbishments,
educational innovations and medical simulations
research to accelerate translation into patient care which forms an overall investment of c.£170m,
to name a few uses, and will welcome creative The building, which is currently under
and improved outcomes for people living with phased over a ten-year period. The plan will
interdisciplinary collaborations from all sectors construction, will house state-of-the-art,
devastating conditions. showcase the groundbreaking work that
wishing to experiment with Augmented (AR), contemporary specialist equipment, aligned to
The DRF houses the University’s Systems Biology Mixed (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR). the University undertakes and will include staff research and expertise and targeted on
Centre, providing genomic and proteomic analysis the development of new teaching, learning, engineering and design activities that support our
facilities and expertise to support delivery of Knowledge Spa research, social and green spaces, as well as the research focus and enable us to engage with and
research and for other university and commercial maintenance and refurbishment of our existing support our regional industrial partners. We have
partners. In addition, the new facility features high The Knowledge Spa is the Cornwall campus space, enhancing our sense of place and the already begun the transformation by
specification in-vitro cell and tissue culture facilities for student nurses in the Faculty of Health, public realm and improving navigability around re-equipping our laboratories with modern,
to support the application of our unique cell model and students in the Peninsula Dental School. the campus. Key to the plan will be two major cutting-edge resources which will enable
technologies and expertise. Based in Truro on the site of the Royal Cornwall developments which are already underway. our engineering research to underpin the
Hospital, Treliske, it provides modern, high-quality 4th Industrial Revolution, develop new
facilities to ensure excellent delivery of health The transformation of the area around Plymouth
Digital Fabrication Lab railway station is being converted into a new interdisciplinary activities in teaching, learning
education and training. Purpose-built clinical skills and research and nurture the innovative graduate
The misalignment between fast-paced digital laboratories, including home and ward settings, approach to the city. We are changing the use
of the former Intercity House from offices to engineers demanded by future society.
media and more traditional physical production allow students to put their learning into practice
processes is now forcing us to change the in the most realistic surroundings possible, and
way we design, make and build. The University the open-access library provides well-equipped
has recently invested in a brand-new Digital space for teaching and research. Artist impression of the Babbage Building,
Fabrication Lab with cutting-edge technologies the new engineering and design facility for
that will support high-quality research, teaching, Marine Station the University
enterprise and academic development in
architecture, design and engineering, enabling Located on the shores of Plymouth Sound, the
new solutions to close this gap. Marine Station is a landmark development which
serves as the base for our marine expeditionary
work and is home to the largest university fleet of
The House
research vessels. With classrooms extending out
A state-of-the-art performing arts centre located into the natural environment, this facility supports
on campus in the city’s central quarter (opposite teaching and research across the full breadth
to The Box), the House is a 200-seat flexible studio of our marine and environmental sciences, and
theatre, built to the very highest technical and engineering courses.
sustainable specification. Its facilities are world
class and it is fast attracting some of the best Plymouth Health Innovation
national and international artists. Campus
Built primarily as a training facility, furthering our Plymouth’s Health Innovation Campus is the
commitment to investing in world class research central component of the city’s health research,
and creating outstanding student opportunities, innovation and economy activity, taking
this stunning building enhances our growing advantage of the existing geographical co-
reputation for artistic innovation and excellence. location of many of the city’s health innovation
assets and expertise that encompass Plymouth
24 25Enterprise,
entrepreneurship and
knowledge exchange
The University has a strong focus on delivering real-world impact
through knowledge exchange and support for innovation, engaging with
businesses, stakeholders and funders, and promoting public engagement
and understanding of its research.
The success of this inclusive, business-facing Enterprise Solutions – the gateway for businesses
approach is evident in the most recent HESA seeking to work with the University – fielded 600
statistics, which show the University is: intensive business enquiries, with 80% of these
being converted into opportunities involving a
• Second in the South West for income from range of specialist expertise, state-of-the-art
intellectual property, consultancy income, and facilities and the talent of the University’s students
facilities and equipment-related income (first in and graduates. Last year it developed a new student
the region in relation to SMEs). business creation and growth service – named
• Third in the region – and 18th nationally – for The Cube – which will deliver a programme of
current turnover of active spinouts. pioneering events and training as well as provide
access to specialist advice, workshops, mentors
• Third in the region – and 14th nationally – for and experts-in-residence who can support students
regeneration income, particularly from the on their enterprise journey, particularly those with
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) ambitions to launch their own start-up or who are
(8th nationally) and European Social Fund (ESF) intending to work in a micro-business or SME.
(6th nationally).
The University engaged with more than 3,000
businesses in 2019/20, creating connections
and collaborations that benefit its students and
academic community, as well as generating
commercial income and forming positive long- term
business partnerships.
26 27Civic engagement and our
role in the community
A commitment to civic engagement is one of the defining characteristics
of the University and has been for many years. The ‘Civic University’ is now
an officially recognised model across the higher education sector, and one
that Plymouth has helped to shape through its engagement with, and input
to, the Civic University Commission.
A founding partner of the City Deal and the A process of agreeing clear priorities will therefore
Growth Acceleration and Investment Network, be necessary and, again, this is where collaboration
the University has driven extensive programmes and aligning resources with local authorities, LEPs
to grow and diversify the regional economy, and (Local Economic Partnerships), NHS bodies and
boost inward investment. It engages directly with the like can help to identify the live issues that
business through knowledge transfer, research and universities can most usefully help with.
development, and its ownership of the Plymouth
Science Park, three innovation centres in Cornwall, We have a growing number of community
and its own on-campus incubation facilities. partnerships, including:
The University is a strong supporter of local • Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth
colleges and academies, the University is raising • Improving Lives Plymouth
aspirations of young people in the city. It also runs • Plymouth and Devon Racial Equality Council
the Devon and Cornwall Children’s University and (PDREC)
has strong links with the University of the Third Age. • University of the Third Age (U3A) Plymouth
We are developing our own Civic University Branch
Agreement with stakeholders across the region, • Plymouth Storytelling Group
which will place the economy and quality of life • Friends of Drake’s Place
in the local community among the University’s • Help for Heroes Plymouth Recovery Centre
strategic priorities, and serve to strengthen
• Real Ideas
and celebrate the links between institution and
location. The Civic University Agreement includes • Dartmoor Zoological Park
four key points: • The Shark Trust
• Effervescent
1. Understanding local populations, and asking
them what they want. • Trevi House
2. Analysis of their place and people’s priorities • Supporting Brain Tumour Research
are essential. • Literature Works
3. Understanding themselves and what they are • Devon and Cornwall Children’s University
able to offer. • The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
4. Working with other local anchor institutions, • Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership
businesses and community organisations
• Tectona Trust.
to agree where the short, medium and long-
term opportunities and problems lie for We also have a strong Community Engagement
communities. strategy and our commitment to our community is
focused around opportunities for learning.
Linking with local authorities and other local
plans, such as the local industrial strategy is
particularly important.
28 29Sustainability at Zero landfill university
including green walls and solar photovoltaics,
which have generated in excess of 10MWh of
electricity in the first year. The University sends almost no waste to landfill
Plymouth
apart from occasional construction waste such
The University has joined major initiatives as asbestos, which cannot currently be recycled
including the WRAP (Waste and Resources Action or incinerated.
Programme) UK Plastics Pact, Plymouth City
Council’s Plan for Plastics and Surfers Against Our non-recyclable waste goes to the energy
Sewage (SAS) Plastic Free Coastlines. plant at Devonport in Plymouth. Incineration
produces less greenhouse gases and, most
Sustainability is at the heart of the University’s refreshed strategy and We run a Ditch the Disposables initiative, offering importantly, less methane than landfill, generating
discounts to those who bring their own cups electricity and heat in the process. The steam is
has informed much of our research, teaching and operations for several into our cafés, and we have no plastic straws in used to heat the dockyard and the naval base,
decades. This is why we remain one of the most innovative and respected campus outlets or the Students’ Union. We are with the majority of the electricity being used
universities in the field, with a proud heritage of national awards and proud to support local, sustainable and Fairtrade there too, with excess going back to the grid.
international accreditations. The University is recognised as an innovative food in our cafés and hospitality services and
are committed to continually developing a Learning to change the world
leader in higher education for sustainability, across teaching and learning,
sustainable food culture.
research and our University operations. One of the University’s biggest impacts on
Single-use plastics sustainability is ensuring that all students have
developed the attributes and competencies
In the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings Further to this, in 2020, the University ratified The University is committed to reducing the use necessary for applying sustainability principles
2021, we were named as one of the top its commitment to net zero for indirect scope 3 of single-use plastics throughout its operations into their professional, civic and personal lives.
institutions globally. In our first appearance in emissions by 2030–50, aligning with both the city’s and to supporting the world-leading research that As an institution, we are committed to providing a
these league tables, we have been ranked 23rd ambitions and national targets. Indirect emissions our academics are delivering, in particular in the sustainable education that enables our students
overall of more than 1,100 universities, reinforcing cannot be directly impacted by the University area of marine environments and microplastics. to engage with global challenges and to make a
our reputation for world-leading and award- alone and will require collaboration with city and As a society we face a growing problem with
national partners. . positive difference in their communities at local,
winning sustainability research and teaching plastic and other waste, and at the University national and global levels.
and 1st globally for our work below water,
A sustainable campus we feel the impact of this, trying to deliver our
re-enforcing our international reputation for target to reduce waste with a growing campus In pursuit of this ambition, the University has
outstanding marine and maritime teaching and Our work to create a sustainable campus focuses and an increasingly throwaway society. We have restructured its Centre for Sustainable Futures
research innovation. on the areas of carbon, waste, water, transport, implemented a number of successful schemes. (CSF) as a catalyst for advancing Education
biodiversity and food, with targets for each to for Sustainable Development (ESD). CSF, now
We have also received five Green Gown Awards ensure we reduce our impact on the natural We have: hosted by the Plymouth Institute of Education
and three Guardian University Awards for our environment as far as possible. We are ranked
• banned plastic straws in all University and in partnership with Educational Development,
work to embed sustainability throughout our in the top 30 universities in the world for use
Students’ Union cafés represents a collaborative community of
campus and courses and in 2019, the University of affordable and clean energy (Times Higher practice spanning all our faculties, engaging
was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Education Impact Awards 2021). • replaced plastic water bottles for hospitality
with staff, students, alumni and community
Higher and Further Education. with glass bottles and jugs of water
Award-winning projects partners to develop ESD. CSF encourages
• introduced a 20p discount on any takeaway hot organisational learning towards a sustainability-
We research solutions for global problems. We drink bought in your own reusable cup, saving
innovate in our teaching and learning to equip We received the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for oriented curriculum and pedagogical innovation,
over 58,000 cups so far from February 2018
graduates with the attributes necessary for world-leading microplastics work in 2020, and particularly in the light of the UN Sustainable
were also shortlisted for the Guardian University • promoted water fountains across campus to Development Goals (SDGs). It also supports the
applying sustainability principles in their civic and
Awards in the Internationalisation category for refill water bottles University’s ambitions for ESD, as articulated in
professional lives. We ensure that we operate a
sustainable estate. soil erosion. • ensured all disposables in University cafés are the Education and Student Experience Strategy,
biodegradable. through promoting curriculum innovation,
Climate emergency Another flagship project is our Sustainability research-led practice and staff training.
Hub on campus. This environment creates a
In 2019 the University declared a climate research, education and collaboration space for
emergency, aiming to achieve net zero emissions staff, students and external partners, housing the
(from scope 1 & 2) by 2025, fast-tracking our University’s Sustainable Earth Institute and Centre
existing carbon reduction targets. To date we for Sustainable Futures. The building has been
have reduced emissions by 62% from 1990, designed to SKA Gold standard, an environmental
placing us in a great position to meet or exceed a design standard for refurbishment projects,
number of sector and government targets.
featuring sustainable construction installations
30 31Why Plymouth?
Plymouth is located in the beautiful South West of England – an
ideal location for leisure and learning, with plenty of quiet spaces
and recreational opportunities. Plymouth enjoys a combination of
modern city living and rural charm. It is around three to four hours by
train to London and there are ferry links to France and Spain.
Dartmoor University campus
“
I have never before, in my long and eclectic
career, been gifted with such an abundance
of natural beauty as I experienced filming
War Horse on Dartmoor.”
Kynance Cove Hollywood director,
Steven Spielberg
Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, is a pretty bicycle rides on vehicle-free paths that
special place. GQ magazine was quoted as traverse the moors – if being in nature is
saying: ‘Plymouth is the coolest little city by a source of regeneration for you, this is
the sea.’ the place to live and work. With Plymouth
between Dartmoor and the sea, the reward for
Plymouth has everything you would expect
living here is stunning natural surroundings.
from the largest city in the South West – major
high street stores, theatres, multiplex cinema, Home to more than 250,000 people, Plymouth
art cinemas, and a wealth of small clubs and is the largest city in the South West peninsula,
venues and excellent public transport links. and its location on the border of Devon and
Our University campus is at the centre of this Cornwall ensures it serves as the major
thriving, oceanfront city in one of the UK’s industrial and cultural hub for the region. Its
most beautiful regions. A ten-minute stroll recent success in attracting new businesses
from the campus will take you to Plymouth and inward investment was emphasised by
Hoe – a Victorian promenade descending its securing of City Deal status in 2014, which
along the waterfront to the Barbican – will see Plymouth leverage some £300 million
Plymouth’s old town. of private funding to establish itself as the
centre of marine renewable energy research
Here, clustered around Sutton Harbour on
and development.
cobbled, Elizabethan streets, you will find
a wonderful mix of quirky shops, galleries, In 2019, Plymouth was named the fifth safest
pavement cafés and eateries, bars and city in the UK in thetravel.com’s 10 of the Safest
nightclubs. Barbecues on the beach, picnics Cities in the UK.
on the Hoe, hikes along the coastline, long
32 33Plymouth Yacht Haven City centre shopping
Events Plymouth’s entertainment and leisure scene is
home to the Theatre Royal Plymouth which is the
There are lots of events to get excited about largest and best attended regional producing
Port Eliot Festival throughout the year. Plymouth hosts food festivals theatre in the UK and The Barcode multiplex,
such as Flavour Fest, and regular farmers’ markets one of the biggest cinema chains in Britain.
where you can sample local produce of the South We also have a thriving music scene including
West. If you’re in Plymouth in the summer, the concerts taking place on Plymouth Hoe, an
world famous British Firework Championships amazing backdrop for some of the UK’s biggest
are not to be missed. You also have the famous awardwinning musicians and bands.
Boardmasters festival in Cornwall.
The Box
Royal William Yard
The City Museum & Art Gallery, former Central
The Royal William Yard is a thriving and Library and St Luke’s Church have undergone
historical hub for many Plymouth retailers, a multimillion-pound redevelopment that
restaurants and bars. The Yard is one of celebrates Plymouth’s role in shaping world
Plymouth’s premier lifestyle destinations history. The Box, in partnership with the
and is an arts and culture hotspot, with University, is a major international cultural
regular public events taking place including attraction with a lively piazza, permanent galleries
outdoor theatre productions, open-air cinema and high-profile exhibitions, including British Art
screenings, and arts and crafts markets. Show 9, plus a dedicated University teaching and
Shopping and entertainment research room.
Plymouth is the largest centre for shopping in the Transport links
South West, outside of Bristol, and features many Despite its idyllic location, Plymouth is well-
independent retailers as well as national brands served by transport links to the rest of the
and high street names in its varied shopping country, with mainline train services to London
areas. Take your time wandering around the Paddington, the Midlands and the North; a fast
extensive range of independent and specialist link to the M5 motorway; a large ferry port with
retailers, or enjoy Plymouth’s landmark shopping services to France and Spain; and easy access to
centre, Drake Circus. the region’s airports at Newquay and Exeter.
34 35You can also read
