Mr Neil Bangs

Biography

Over the past two decades, my journey in education has taken me through various roles in both public and private sectors. Since starting out in 2003, I've honed my skills to improve educational methods and foster academic growth. Currently, I hold positions as Associate Professor and Teaching and Learning Lead at Middlesex University, as well as serving as Chair of the United Kingdom Advising and Tutoring Association (UKAT).

My dedication to transforming educational practices has led me to explore different sectors and accumulate valuable experiences that have shaped my approach to teaching and leadership. At Middlesex University, I've spearheaded initiatives to promote active learning and collaborative teaching methods. For example, introducing flipped learning techniques has boosted student engagement and critical thinking skills, resulting in higher satisfaction rates and better learning outcomes.

As Chair of UKAT, I've collaborated on national projects, including the development of a recognition scheme for academic advisors and tutors. This scheme celebrates excellence in advising and tutoring, enhancing the quality of support provided to students across the UK.

My leadership at Middlesex University has led to the establishment of high-performing learning environments and notable student achievements. For instance, as Programme Leader for SES (PE & Coaching), I've achieved above-average student outcomes and maintained high levels of student satisfaction.

Prior to my role at Middlesex University, I held leadership positions at William de Ferrers Sports College and Val Sabin Publications & Training, where I pioneered innovative educational initiatives. These initiatives, such as sports and health programs and the Activate program, aimed to improve educational attainment and address learning challenges.

On a national level, I've contributed to projects focusing on equality, diversity, and inclusion in education, as well as educational programming for the BBC. As Chair of UKAT, I've worked to promote best practices in student advising and tutoring, fostering collaboration and tangible improvements in educational settings.

Beyond my professional roles, I'm committed to mentoring emerging educators and contributing to academic discussions through keynote addresses at conferences worldwide. My goal is to create inclusive learning environments that empower students to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society.

Teaching

As an established academic I teach on the Sport and Exercise Science (Physical Education and Coaching) BSc Honours programme. The modules I teach can vary depending on the academic year, however I specialise within:

Physical Education and Sports Coaching:

These modules provide students with a comprehensive understanding of learning theories and coaching styles across various sports contexts. They learn to plan, deliver, evaluate, and modify coaching sessions, while also gaining insight into the national curriculum and pedagogical differences at different key stages. Through individual and group work, students enhance their interpersonal and communication skills.

Dissertation:

This module allows students to synthesise their learning from the undergraduate programme by independently investigating a topic of interest. It encourages academic curiosity and the application of research skills, facilitating higher-level theorising. Students select a relevant topic for an in-depth study, critically assessing evidence to support conclusions and recommendations.

Made in Middlesex Expansion Modules:

These modules build on the personal and professional outcomes of undergraduate students. Learners are challenged to provide opinions supported by reasoning and evidence across various inter-related sectors. Through collaboration, students appraise, assess, and critique information from subject experts within Support and Wellbeing, Employability, Learning Enhancement, and the Students' Union. They develop innovative skills that inspire lifelong problem-solving within inclusive socio-economic development, community sustainability, and the concepts of equity, health, and wellbeing.