Dr Edd Pitt, Reader in Higher Education and Academic Practice, has recently been awarded the prestigious title of Principal Fellowship of the HEA by AdvanceHE. This recognition highlights Edd’s outstanding strategic, policy, and practice contributions to the global assessment and feedback in higher education landscape.
With only around 2,000 named Principal Fellows around the world, PFHEA is the highest recognition granted to individuals for their sustained contributions and effective record of impact on academic practice in higher education nationally and internationally.
Transforming assessment and feedback practices worldwide
Edd’s leadership in assessment and feedback as a member of the Centre for the Study of Higher Education has reshaped educational policy and practices on an international scale. In particular, his work with universities in the UK, Hong Kong and Australia have led to cultural shifts in assessment and feedback, empowering educators and students alike to engage deeply with the learning process.
Speaking about his work, he says: ‘I have always championed evidence-based approaches to enhance the practice of educators and the student learning experience. Much of my work starts at the practice level, and then moves towards changing institutional strategy and policy so this becomes embedded and sustainable.’
This has led Edd to lead initiatives in areas such as developing staff and student feedback literacy, self-assessment rubrics, assessment fairness and impactful feedback design. These have equipped educators with the tools they need to meet the evolving needs of students and transform their assessment and feedback practice.
Making a difference at Kent
More locally, Edd’s leadership has also shaped the institutional approaches to teaching and learning at Kent.
‘I lead the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) which has not only enhanced professional development for new academics but also embedded a culture of pedagogic excellence here at Kent. I also lead the Annual Learning and Teaching Prizes which emphasise excellent practice, impact on student learning, and the influence my colleagues have beyond their School or institution. Such reward and recognition activities are part of the wider support for staff professional development that the Centre for the Study of Higher Education offers.’
Reflecting on Edd’s contributions to the higher education sector, Advance HE have said: ‘Edd’s strategic impact on academic development is exemplary. His leadership has inspired a generation of educational leaders, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.’
Edd’s Principal Fellowship not only recognises his past achievements but also underscores his ongoing strategic contributions to the global higher education landscape. As Principal Fellow of the HEA, Edd continues to drive forward a vision of inclusive, evidence-informed higher education. As an international thought leader, Edd inspires policy innovation, fosters cultural change, and champions evidence-based strategies that empower educators and students.