Inspiring leader recognised for 'key developments'

A pioneering academic has been honoured with an excellence in education leader award for his role in guiding a school through unprecedented times.

Dr Paul Freeman scooped the prize for his work in the School of Sport, Rehabilitation Science and Exercise (SRES) over the past eight years.

With colleagues highlighting his creative leadership that helped guide them through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The introduction of online modules as lockdown hit was praised by students and his work has been adapted as the University moved to blended work.

He was nominated by colleague Barry Pryer who said: “Paul has effectively led a number of key developments in SRES that have contributed to the strategic goals of the school.

“His work across all of these has been outstanding, and this practice has been shared within the school, university and at a national forum."

As well as receiving consistently great individual evaluation scores his contribution he has selflessly developed his peers and students.

Passionate about employment his work led to SRES topping the charts for former students in graduate-level jobs.

Dr Freeman was also instrumental in the formation of one of SRES’ first postgraduate courses developing and validating the MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology course.

Now in its third-year student satisfaction remains high and is a vital part of developing careers.

Away from developing courses and teaching Dr Freeman has been a key part in expanding Essex’s influence overseas.

He has helped to establish partner courses with Kaplan Singapore.

Speaking of his work Dr Sandy Wolfson, External Examiner, said: “I was particularly impressed by the diverse, innovative types of assessments devised by the staff.

“These included action plan responses to individual cases, presentations, practicals, reviews, vodcasts, critiques and more.

“These were able to distinguish between the weaker and stronger students, giving the latter an opportunity to shine.

“I got the impression that the students enjoyed tackling these, which is always a good sign. This is an outstanding programme taught by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff with expertise in the subject of their modules.”