Meet Fleur Middlebrough, Group Subject Head of Accounting here at Salford Business School.
From being the first in her family to graduate, Fleur has made it her mission to inspire and make a positive impact on the next generation of accounting students. She has a keen interest in exploring ways in which academics can create an inclusive journey for students and prepare them for a path in the professional world.
In this blog, Fleur reflects on her career journey, key milestones, and how she became the academic she is today.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
I’ve always wanted to teach from a young age (although Drama was where I thought I’d go).
I took a scenic route to get here, after 25 years in the industry – from shop assistant to credit director. I later returned to university to complete my undergraduate degree and then my master’s degree in teaching. After that, I taught business, accounting and computer science in a secondary school.
After a few years of some hard work and good luck, I made my way to the University of Salford, first starting out in law, leaving for a short time and then coming back to accounting.
Having left school with limited qualifications to now working towards a doctorate, I hope that I can have a positive impact on the learning journey of the next generation (and beyond).
Why did you choose to work at the University of Salford?
When I was doing my professional qualifications back in the early 2000s, I attended a revision session delivered on campus and I thought back then it would be a place where I could see myself working.
Fast forward to 2014, when I was teaching at Salford College, I was able to link in with the academic team at the University, and each time I visited campus it just felt right.
The student body was one I could relate to, being the first in my family to go to university and how welcoming it felt. By 2017, I made the leap with the help of a few colleagues along the way.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
How students are at the heart of everything we do.
I love being in the classroom, every group brings something new and I can continue to learn. No two days are the same, even when you are teaching the same subject to different groups, something new will always happen. A new perspective, a new question, a new reflection.
Seeing the students grow throughout their time with us, all the way to graduation, is incredibly rewarding. I feel proud to have played even a small part in their journey. I like the support we can give to others, especially in my role. I have been able to give others the same help in gaining experience in academia, to get their ‘foot in the door.’
Can you tell us about any of your career highlights to date?
There are so many, I’m not sure I can pick just one.
When I returned to Salford, I had the pleasure of leading on a Level 6 module. One of these students was then asked to come back the year after they had graduated to address the audience. I was so proud of them, despite them being nervous – I let them into a secret, that I was also nervous having to read of the names of the graduates too!
What’s your current research focused on?
So many interests and so little time.
I am passionate about inclusivity in higher education, particularly how we can help students navigate their journey and prepare them for their future careers. Also, how we can provide the right tools, especially neurodiverse students, ensuring that it’s not a detriment of others.
As Global Citizenship Co-ordinator for the Business School, I am always looking at ways we can include international learning opportunities and the impact this has on the student body.
Do you have any published papers we can read?
I’m looking to submit a research paper on inclusivity with a focus on accounting students and the barriers they face when moving onto their professional qualifications.
Also, I’ve assisted on papers with my colleagues on green accounting and sustainability and there is a paper being finalised with a number of colleagues which focuses on Peer Assisted Learning.
Watch this space.
And finally, the all-important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
Outside of the University, I’d have to say the Old Fire Station, on a sunny day, sat outside. For a bit of peace and quiet, definitely my office – I have a great little coffee machine and some nice fairly lights to create that chill space.