
2024 Daphne Jackson Medal and Prize
Associate Professor Daniel Cottle for exceptional contributions to physics education by linking physics teacher training with widening participation in university physics, and pioneering a whole life-cycle approach to addressing issues of inclusion.
Associate Professor Daniel Cottle has created and implemented a blueprint for addressing the entire life cycle of becoming a physics educator from school student through to successful qualified teacher. He has shown that it is possible to simultaneously improve physics opportunities in school, increase the pipeline of trainee teachers and improve retention of physics teachers in the profession.
In 2018, Cottle moved from a successful career as a physics teacher and head of science at a grammar school to a new career at the University of Birmingham. The role is shared between the schools of Education and Physics & Astronomy, and was created to address the well-known problems of diversity in physics and teacher recruitment and retention.
Cottle has developed the role far beyond what was imagined possible. In all instances, he has ensured that the pipeline is widened to be more diverse and inclusive. In 2018, there were five trainee physics teachers at the university. In 2023, there are 13 (compared to a decreasing national trend).
Alongside this, Cottle has established a foundation year, fully funded through philanthropic funding, to support access for those without traditional qualifications. He has created innovative modules to ensure that professional networks are established for these students and they can access the same career opportunities as their peers. He leads, on behalf of the UK physics community, the Levelling Up physics outreach programme (the Birmingham cohort was 50% BAME) and works closely with the other disciplinary hub leads.
Cottle creates and delivers learning opportunities for physics teachers, enabling professional development communities for ongoing peer support. He has been a teaching and learning coach on the Stimulating Physics Network project (Institute of Physics), and an Ogden Trust Teacher Fellow. He designs, including for non-specialist teachers, innovative ways to teach real-world concepts, such as energy efficiency. He acts as a consultant with schools and multi-academy trusts on improvements to support pupil learning in physics.
Cottle regularly collaborates and shares learning with the physics education community through publications (Physics Education and School Science Review) and presentations at conferences such as VICEPhEC, GIREP, BERA and ASE.
At a national policy level, Cottle advises the UK Government Department for Education on physics education, including two expert working groups where his unique perspective combines an integrated understanding of educational research, physics education and practical experience of education.