The Queen’s University Belfast School of Law Teaching Awards, which took place on the 12th February, were introduced this year to celebrate and recognise excellence in teaching, innovation, and student support within the School. Conceived by Director of Education, Dr Victoria Barnes, the initiative was developed to highlight the dedication and impact of law academics who go above and beyond in their teaching, inspiring students and fostering an inclusive, research-led, and engaging learning environment. The awards were made possible with the support of Eoin Clarke and Veronika Pavelkova, whose contributions ensured students played a central role in the nomination and selection process.

The awards featured seven key categories, each designed to reflect different aspects of outstanding teaching. These included Most Innovative Lecturer, Excellence in Interdisciplinary Lecturing, and Best Tutorial Leader, among others. The awards recognised academics who push the boundaries of legal education, demonstrate exceptional commitment to student support, foster inclusive communities, and integrate cutting-edge research into their teaching.

Each category was introduced by a faculty member, with student representatives playing a key role in shortlisting nominees—a testament to the School’s commitment to student-led recognition. The winners and nominees represented a diverse range of expertise and teaching styles, all united by their passion for creating an enriching and inspiring academic experience. As the inaugural awards set a new tradition, they reinforced the School of Law’s dedication to excellence in legal education and the vital role that educators play in shaping the next generation of legal professionals.

Reflections from the Head of School and Award Recipients

Professor Joan Loughrey, Head of School, praised the initiative, stating:

"This was a wonderful event in which students and staff worked in partnership to celebrate excellent teaching and commitment to the student experience. Our students did a fantastic job in organising the nominations and in their nominating speeches. I know how much the staff appreciated this. I am absolutely delighted for all my colleagues who were nominated and who won the awards. It was very well-deserved recognition for all that they do in delivering an excellent legal education and student support. I would like to thank Vicky Barnes, Eoin Clarke, Veronika Pavelkova, Elizabeth Agnew, and Gift Sotonye Frank for leading on the organisation of this event in partnership with the students."

The winners shared their thoughts on receiving their awards:

Adeniyi Olayode (Most Innovative Lecturer, Most Inspirational Lecturer, Providing Excellent Student Support & Impact):  "I would like to say thank you to the entire student body for recognising me in not just one but multiple categories!!   I was particularly humbled by the kind words from all the student presenters. It is indeed a privilege to have had such a positive impact on their lives.   I would also like give special thanks to all my colleagues at the School of Law, whose kind support contributed immensely to this achievement."

John Taggart (Creating an Inclusive Community, Use of Cutting-Edge Research): "As academics, we can sometimes get caught up in our research. Yesterday's award ceremony was a perfect reminder of what is best about the School of Law: the community of people, made up of both staff and students. It was heartening to hear how much students appreciate the effort the lecturing staff make and how different teaching styles are valued."

Norah Burns (Excellence in Interdisciplinary Lecturing): "I am very grateful to the students who voted for me in the Excellence in Interdisciplinary Lecturing category. Law does not exist in a vacuum, and I relish the opportunity to discuss law through an interdisciplinary lens with my students. The Law School is lucky to have students who are so engaged and who make it a pleasure to work with them in class."

Seamus Mulholland (Best Tutorial Leader): "I am delighted to have received the Best Tutorial Leader award, especially given the wonderful colleagues alongside whom I was nominated. I want to thank my first-class colleagues with whom I work to deliver the Evidence and Criminal Procedure tutorials. It’s a great pleasure to see that practice-informed and broad-scoped tutorials are being so well-received. The challenge of combining academic and practice interest has been enthusiastically taken up by our level two and level three undergraduate students. Thank you to all the students I've had the pleasure of teaching. Seeing you master the concepts of Evidence and Criminal Procedure and apply them to great ends is a constant source of fulfilment and happiness."

Award Winners:

• Most Innovative Lecturer: Adeniyi Olayode

• Most Inspirational Lecturer: Adeniyi Olayode

• Creating an Inclusive Community: John Taggart

• Use of Cutting-Edge Research: John Taggart

• Providing Excellent Student Support & Impact: Adeniyi Olayode

• Excellence in Interdisciplinary Lecturing: Norah Burns

• Best Tutorial Leader: Seamus Mulholland

The inaugural Queen’s University Belfast School of Law Teaching Awards have set a new precedent for recognising and celebrating the vital contributions of educators. The event underscored the strong partnership between staff and students in shaping a world-class legal education experience. As this tradition continues, it will further reinforce the School’s commitment to pedagogical excellence and student-centred learning.