20 July 2016 14:31

A Lancaster student and a member of staff both received national honours at the Student Employee of the Year Awards on 7 July.

Emily Chi, a Peace Studies and International Relations undergraduate, won the Above and Beyond Award for her part-time role producing online learning videos.

She was nominated for the professional standard of her Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) videos and for also producing printed material and live-streaming events.

Lancaster University’s MOOCs are free online courses that have attracted more than 100,000 learners around the world. 

“Learning from real practice and hands-on experiences is priceless,” said Emily.

“I am very thankful to the University and honoured to have been recognised on the national level.”

Emily found the position through the University’s Employment and Recruitment Service, which helps Lancaster students and graduates find work.

Librarian Paul Newnham won the Employer Award after being nominated by students who work in the University’s Learning Zone – a study area designed for group work.

They praised his one-to-one coaching, inspirational leadership and the opportunities he offers to develop new skills.

Paul said: “I have really enjoyed working with all the Student Advisers over the years who have helped to shape and run the Learning Zone.

“It’s fantastic to get positive feedback from the people you manage.”

The Student Employee of the Year Awards is organised by the National Association of Student Employment Services to recognise students who work part-time while they study and the staff who support them.

This year, organisers received nearly 700 entries, with Lancaster University among the top 10 for nominations. Winners receive a trophy, certificate and a cheque for £100.