Marvellous - a blueprint for student engagement?

Keele University, in the UK Midlands, plays host to a unique character - Neil Baldwin.  Neil wrote a book about his colourful life that was made into a BBC film - Marvellous.  Neil also lists his occupation as "Clown" but has also been Stoke City kit man, Keele University greeter and his own football club player-captain.

Neil knows a thing or two about student engagement.  Lessons that many academics could follow:

PICTURE BY MOUSE GRAPHICS AT FREEDIGITALIMAGES.COM

Student engagement needs:

• access to tutors at sensible times
• knowledge of both academic and pastoral support available
• time to spend with those who need it most
• a relationship built on mutual trust
• people who care
• lecturers wearing baggy trousers (or is that just Neil the Clown?)

Fake that, and you've got it made!

P.S. Neil @Keele does not fake it.