Susan Rabbitt

I worked in and was a partner in my family’s small business for over 15 years before joining the university in 2006. I was responsible for all elements of running the business.

During this time, I studied part-time at what was then the Bolton Institute of Higher Education. All my higher education has been here at the university and I am a proud alumni. Managing the family business gave me an insight into the importance of leading and managing effectively. My research interests focus on approaching learning and development through the lens of Senge’s Learning Organisation, whilst recognising its limitations. In particular, I am interested in how the five disciplines can be applied and adapted to enhance organisational effectiveness.

Being able to bring real-life examples into my teaching enhances my ability to provide students with teaching intensive research informed experience. I enjoy encouraging students to explore through role-play and debate the importance of business and management principles to achieve organisational goals.

As Academic Co-ordinator for Standards, Enhancement and the Learner Experience, I am responsible for ensuring quality assurance and enhancement enriches students’ experience within the School of Education and Psychology. This role allows me to fulfil my own views that if a job is worth doing, then it is worth doing well.

I strive to provide excellence in teaching and learning for our students at all times. I am passionate about offering higher education opportunities for all. I am responsible for transition programmes within the school, including access to HE Diplomas and fast-track to HE programmes. The rewards from managing such provision are significant as those who have not had the opportunity to progress through traditional A-Level routes are able to enter higher education through our transition programmes and then continue onto degree programmes. Many continue their higher education with PGCEs, masters and even doctoral study.

Providing opportunities for those who have not previously been able to access higher education and facilitating progression is indeed a privilege. I am proud to manage a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about transition.

I serve as a member of the Access to HE Committee at Open Awards and also as a member of the QAA’s Access Qualifications Development Group. Both groups enable me to develop a deeper understanding of transition into higher education at regional and national level.