David Sadler

UWA offers one of the most attractive university environments and campuses in Australia. I am excited to see how the education portfolio can help achieve the University's ambition to be a top 50 University in world rankings.

The student experience at research-intensive universities is one of the most interesting challenges for a DVC Education given the important role that reputation, rankings and perceptions play in the increasingly competitive and globalised world of higher education. Yet across the world research-intensive universities do not traditionally rank highly in student experience surveys.

But it doesn't have to be this way. By identifying what high achieving students value and demonstrating what studying in an intellectually inspiring research environment means for them, we can successfully address this. UWA can be a leader in Australia of a research-informed student experience that brings students into contact with world-leading research; allows them opportunities to engage in research; and delivers experiences that are exceptional in meeting their aspirations. This means demonstrating excellence in learning and teaching, and identifying experiential and global opportunities for students.

I have always been passionate about the student experience and how this directly links to the teaching and research opportunities we provide. We all remember the inspiration we drew from specific teachers and know how important good teaching can be in enhancing experiences.

Put simply education matters and it is through education that we help our students realise their potential to benefit our communities, local, national and global.

David Sadler