Successful partnership that could lead to an ‘Oscar’

University of Leeds student Chloe Allan is taking the first steps towards establishing a long-term career with Marks & Spencer.

The graphic and communication design student, has secured a year in industry with M&S.

It’s a partnership which is part of broader strategy to forge links between the world of work and academia.

The University of Leeds is in contention for three Times Higher Education Awards, which have been described as the ‘Oscars’ of the higher education sector.

The university’s links with M&S have led to it being shortlisted in the Outstanding Employer Engagement Initiative.

The partnership sees M&S joining forces with academics to conduct research, such as developing new insights into international business models.

It is also helping students to find jobs through mentoring, placements, study days and career sessions.

The university has also been shortlisted for the Entrepreneurial University of the Year title, which recognises work designed to help students and staff develop their enterprise and innovation skills.

Finally, Dr Luke Burns, from the school of geography has reached the final six of the Most Innovative Teacher of the Year award category, which recognises academics who inspire students.

Dr Burns was nominated for his use of technology in his teaching.

Alison Houston, head of the partnership at M&S, said: “We’re delighted that our partnership with the University of Leeds has been shortlisted for this prestigious award.”