International Education Partnership | The University of Sunderland

Published on 26, March, 2025

Academic teaching in front of class using whiteboard

The University of Sunderland has partnered with an international training foundation in Switzerland to enhance its teacher training and innovation.

The Academy for Innovation in Pedagogy (AIP) Foundation in partnership with the University will deliver expert training and professional development for trainee teachers internationally.

Trainee teachers will be able to access courses taught through the University’s distance learning training programmes, equipping educators with the skills and knowledge to transform learning experiences globally.

This collaboration also brings together the expertise of the AIP Foundation’s partner, the Institut International de Lancy (IIL), a Geneva-based institution with over 120 years of experience in educational excellence.

Dionne Ross, International Teacher Education Development Lead at the University, said: "Education is the cornerstone of progress, and through this partnership, we are reinforcing our commitment to supporting teachers at every stage of their careers.

“By combining our strengths, we will empower educators with the tools, knowledge and confidence to inspire future generations and elevate teaching standards worldwide."

This partnership combines the University’s expertise in teacher training with the AIP Foundation’s innovative approach to adult education and IIL’s legacy of excellence to create new opportunities for educators seeking flexible, high-quality professional development.

Academics and staff stood in a group — L-R: Francisco Benavente (AIP), Yannick Jacomme (IIL), Kate Shaw (UoS), Dionne Ross (UoS), Carl Newton (UoS), Dr Elizabeth Hidson (UoS), Vicki Stokes (UoS), Dr Ben Middleton (UoS) and Monique Roine (IIL)

"Through the AIP Foundation, we place innovation and educational excellence at the service of those shaping the education of tomorrow," said Francisco Benavente, Director of the AIP Foundation.

“It is essential to support and mentor future teachers during their first steps in the world of teaching. Support, train, and inspire are the pillars of our mission."

The partnership builds on the University’s long-standing leadership in distance learning teacher education, dating back to 1999. Today, the University’s International Teacher Training provision supports over 1,000 trainees across 65 countries.

Dr Ben Middleton, Academic Dean of the Faculty of Education, Society and Creative Industries at the University, said: "At the heart of this partnership is a shared vision for innovation in education.

“By working together with the AIP Foundation and Institut International de Lancy, we are broadening access to world-class teacher training, ensuring that educators - wherever they are - can develop their expertise through flexible and high-quality learning opportunities. This collaboration is a powerful step to shape the future of education."