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Coventry University London Dean recognised with national teaching excellence award
Hany Wells, Academic Dean, Coventry University London
Thursday 07 August 2025
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The Academic Dean of Coventry University London has been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship by Advance HE for her outstanding contribution to excellent teaching in higher education in the UK.
Dr Hany Wells joined Coventry University London in September 2019 as Associate Dean for Student Experience and Quality Assurance and has since led a range of initiatives that have significantly enhanced teaching, learning and student engagement.
Her forward-thinking vision on the emerging challenges posed by generative AI in education and its potential impact on assessment, initiated a proactive review of assessment design before the issue gained widespread attention. This approach has positively influenced academic integrity at Coventry University London and has informed the wider Coventry University Group’s strategy on AI and assessment.
Dr Wells’ transformational leadership and collaborative approach have strengthened partnerships across academic and professional teams, and ensured student feedback informs key developments. Her strategies have been adopted across the Coventry University Group and now form a core part of the Group’s Curriculum Transformation Project, impacting more than 2,500 staff and 31,000 students.
The National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) celebrates and recognises individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in higher education. It is considered to be higher education's most prestigious UK teaching excellence awards.
As I reflect on my 27 years of service within the Higher Education sector, I am reminded that the unwavering foundation of my professional journey has always been a deep commitment to, and genuine care for, the learning and personal development of students. Their growth, resilience, and achievements have continually inspired and motivated me, serving as the core purpose behind everything I do.
Throughout these years, I have been truly privileged to work alongside exceptional colleagues across both academic and professional services teams. The collaboration, mutual respect, and shared dedication to educational excellence that I have experienced have been both humbling and profoundly enriching.
This recognition is not solely a reflection of my own efforts but a testament to the collective commitment of all those who have supported me—mentors, peers, and team members. Their professionalism, encouragement, and tireless contributions have helped to navigate challenging periods and celebrate the rewarding milestones.
I am deeply honoured to be recognised for this prestigious national award. The improvements we have made in enhancing staff and student experience reflect the collective commitment and hard work of colleagues across Coventry University London and the wider Coventry University Group. This recognition is a shared achievement, and I am proud to be part of such a dedicated and forward-thinking community.
Dr Hany Wells
Hany’s passion for the enhancement of learning and the student experience is evident in the changes and initiatives that she has introduced at Coventry University London and reflected in year on year improvements in the National Student Survey, Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey and Module Evaluation Questionnaires.
Dr Wells leads from the front; the changes she has introduced at Coventry University London have had significant impact on academic staff and professional services. What is particularly impressive is the consistency in which initiatives are implemented through clear and inspirational leadership impacting on all staff.
Professor Andrew Turner, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Curriculum Development)
Dr Wells’ approach in transforming teaching and learning was not easy. It had to be innovative and disruptive and its impact lasting to gain traction. She has demonstrated effective strategic leadership and operational resilience which has transformed the way education is delivered.
Professor Socrates Karidis, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Coventry University London
The 2025 Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, 25 September, at the Harbour Hotel Bristol.
