Awards for Programs that Enhance Learning (APEL)

All applications for APEL must address one of the following four (4) application categories and the assessment criteria: 

1. Student Experience that supports diversity and inclusive practices 
2. Collaborative Educational Partnerships in Learning and Teaching 
3. Curriculum Transformation and Innovative Pedagogy 
4. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programs that value and enhance student employability 

APEL applications are assessed against the following Criteria in equal consideration by the Shortlisting Committee and Selection Committee: 

1. Impacted student learning, student engagement, or the overall student experiences for a period of no less than three years, not including time taken for development or trial of any activity. 
2. Gained recognition from fellow staff, the University, and/or the broader community. 
3. Shown creativity, imagination or innovation, irrespective of whether the approach involves traditional learning environments or technology-based environments. 
4. Drawn on the scholarly literature on teaching and learning to inform the development of initiatives, programs and/or practice. 

Applicants are advised that the general eligibility and eligibility of previous recipients is outlined in the Application Information and Instructions (PDF, 651 KB). 

Please pay attention to these requirements as you proceed with your application and contact the team if you have any questions about your eligibility to apply or the most suitable award or application category for your circumstances. 

Please refer to the Application Information and Instructions (PDF, 651 KB) for guidance when preparing your application.

Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)

APEL applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest and upload their Summary of Evidence by 12noon, 6 May 2025.

The EOI online form will prompt you for the following information:

• Application form:
  • Applicant details including name, school, faculty, email and team details (if applicable)
  • Application category
  • Synopsis (150–200 words)
  • Overview of the project, team or service and its context (max. 300 words).
• File upload:
  • Summary of evidence addressing all four assessment criteria provided in dot point format (maximum one A4 page)
  • Reference list on a separate page (n.b. this is not your publication history, and should only include a list of the works cited in your EOI).

Stage 2: Full Application

A Shortlisting Committee will appraise expressions of interest according to the published criteria, and will invite eligible applicants to provide a detailed application by 25 July 2025.

To download previous APEL applications, browse through our Exemplar award application library (staff login required).

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a workshop facilitated by ITaLI where advice and guidance will be given on the format and content of their APEL application.

A Selection Committee will appraise applications according to the published criteria and make recommendations for awarding commendations and citations to the University Teaching, Learning and Student Experience Committee for endorsement and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) for approval.

1:1 Consultations

Applicants who need 1:1 support are recommended to request a consultation with ITaLI staff.

Information session

21 March 2025 at 10am, 11a-130 (ModWest Building)

This session will provide an overview of the Teaching and Learning Award schemes offered at UQ, and tips for structuring an effective expression of interest.

Register for the session

Writing a Teaching and Learning Award application workshop

This session is open to shortlisted applicants only and will be held on 25 June 2025.

The purpose of this workshop is to provide applicants with guidance on the format and content of their application and discuss tips for a successful application.

Mentored award writing session

This session is open to shortlisted applicants only and will be held on 17July 2025.

The purpose of this session is to provide applicants with time and space to work on their draft application, with ITaLI staff and previous UQ award winners available to provide advice and clarification.

• View previous APEL award winners