Natalie Pollard

Background

About Natalie Pollard

I am a recognised leader and scholar in the teaching and learning of radiation therapy and medical radiation science students, and have received recognition for the transformative work that I have undertaken in learning innovation, curriculum design and enhancing teaching quality. In my current role as course coordinator of the Bachelor of Radiation Therapy program at QUT, I provide leadership in course development and approval processes, curriculum development and implementation and course quality assurance and improvement. This extends to my work creating effective Work Integrated Learning programs in radiation therapy and medical imaging, designing engaging learning environments and authentic assessments. My teaching is focused on providing students with the skills, knowledge and opportunity to develop their practice and provide the highest standard of care to patients and their families. I am currently leading some work on strategies to support neurodivergent students My work has been recognised with two QUT Vice Chancellor's Awards for Excellence:(1) 2021: Service Excellence - Work Integrated Learning COVID-19 Response Team (2) 2023: Teaching Excellence Radiation Therapy I have extensive expertise in building and leading academic and administrative teams, providing guidance and support to junior academics in their role development and providing strategic leadership to ensure that programs are relevant and meet the needs of a constantly evolving health service. I currently mentor a number of colleagues (including clinical RT's interested in teaching) both within QUT and throughout Australia. I have served on numerous professional committees and boards, most recently as the Deputy Chair for the Medical Radiation Practice Accreditation Committee (Ahpra). I have extensive experience assessing medical radiation science programs of study against approved accreditation standards, and bring this experience into my role assessing a variety of academic programs at QUT in my role on the Curriculum Standards Committee. My research interests are focused on the development of strategies to assist allied health students to develop effective communication skills with patients and their families. I am also conducting research on ways to better prepare and support students to undertake Work Integrated Learning placements. I have been recognised as a future senior leader in academia, completing the QUT Women in STEMM Leadership Shadowing Program (2022-2023), under the mentorship of Professor Abby Cathcart.