Oxford expert to lead school of education

A new Head of School has been appointed to the University of Adelaide’s School of Education. 

Professor Susan James Relly is joining from the University of Oxford where her last role was Deputy Director of the Department of Education and Associate Head (Education) in the Social Sciences Division

Professor Relly said she is thrilled to be joining the University.

“I am very much looking forward to contributing to the high calibre of research and excellence the University of Adelaide is known for,” she said.

“The University of Adelaide’s School of Education is forward thinking in its delivery of teacher education, providing an excellent platform for pre-service teachers to enter the profession incredibly well-prepared.

“Education is fundamental to individuals and society. I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to work with colleagues in the school to build upon their already impressive achievements in research.

“I would like to achieve growth in the school to continue delivering world-class teaching and learning across a broad range of subjects, growing inter-disciplinarity and a focus on the knowledge economy and the skills economy.”

“I am very much looking forward to contributing to the high calibre of research and excellence the University of Adelaide is known for. I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to work with colleagues in the school to build upon their already impressive achievements in research."Professor Susan James Relly, Head of School, School of Education, the University of Adelaide.

Professor Relly was appointed after an international search for a suitable expert to lead the school.

Her areas of research interest are in vocational education and training policy; apprenticeship and work based learning; social mobility and non-graduate occupations; and further education, teaching and learning.

Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, Professor John Williams, said Professor Relly will be a fantastic addition to the School and University.

“Professor Relly will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our School and University. I am looking forward to working closely with her to shape the future of education in South Australia,” he said.

Professor Relly was a Governing Body Fellow at Green Templeton College, Oxford. She will begin her role in January 2023.