Dr Anna Bertram, Director of Laboratory Teaching at the University of Nottingham, has been awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship by Advance HE, recognising her outstanding contribution to higher education and student success. She is one of 55 educators across the UK to receive this honour in 2026, alongside 15 collaborative teams awarded the Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence (CATE).
A Career Dedicated to Practical Science Education
Based in the School of Chemistry, Dr Bertram has revolutionised hands-on learning by modernising laboratory teaching and embedding essential skills development into the curriculum. Her innovative approaches to assessment and reflection have enhanced student engagement and better prepared graduates for research and employment.
Her work focuses on helping students recognise, develop and articulate the skills they need to succeed. She has led the creation of skills-focused, reflective practical chemistry curricula that integrate technical, professional and transferable skills throughout the student journey, fostering independence and self-regulated learning.
National Impact and Collaboration
Dr Bertram's influence extends beyond Nottingham. Through her leadership in the Chemistry Teaching in Practice network, she collaborates with educators nationwide and the Royal Society of Chemistry to tackle shared challenges in laboratory education. She has developed frameworks that support curriculum design, skills development and more inclusive teaching practices.
As a qualified coach and mentor, she is passionate about developing others and creating opportunities for colleagues to lead educational innovation. Her coaching-led approach underpins her leadership of the School of Chemistry's award-winning Laboratory Development Team, building capacity for sustainable change within the university and the wider chemistry community.
Recognition and Awards
Her contributions have previously been recognised with the Royal Society of Chemistry Team Prize for Excellence in Higher Education, University of Nottingham Lord Dearing Awards, and School of Chemistry Teaching Excellence Awards. The National Teaching Fellowship adds to this impressive list, placing her among the UK's most inspiring educators.
Dr Bertram said: “I am thrilled to receive a National Teaching Fellowship. My work has always been driven by a desire to help students build confidence, independence and an awareness of the skills they are developing through their studies. I have been fortunate to work alongside outstanding students, colleagues and collaborators, and this award reflects the collective impact of those partnerships in advancing practical chemistry education.”
Sector-Wide Celebration
Alistair Jarvis CBE, Chief Executive of Advance HE, congratulated all 2026 recipients: “They exemplify the dedication, creativity and leadership that underpin outstanding higher education. Through their commitment to students and continual enhancement of teaching and learning, they are making a significant contribution to their institutions and the wider sector. I am pleased to recognise their achievements and celebrate the impact they have made on students, colleagues and communities throughout the UK.”
The 2026 National Teaching Fellows and CATE recipients will be formally recognised at an awards ceremony on September 24, 2026 in Edinburgh. Dr Bertram's award highlights the University of Nottingham's commitment to teaching excellence and its impact on student success across the UK.
