Oxford expert to lead school of education

Professor Susan James Relly has been appointed as the new Head of the University’s School of Education. 

Professor James Relly is joining us 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. 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.

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."

Professor Relly was appointed after an international search for a suitable expert to lead the school, and will begin her role in January 2023.