19th September 2025
BHASVIC Celebrates Angie's Appointment as an AoC Research Scholar
We are proud to share that Angie Fantis, teacher of Psychology at BHASVIC, has been selected as one of three new scholars in the prestigious Research Further initiative, led by the Association of Colleges (AoC) and supported by the AoC Charitable Trust. Angie joins a select group of further education professionals across the country who are undertaking postgraduate research aimed at shaping policy and enhancing practice within the sector. Her research will focus on inclusion in further and sixth-form education, a subject she has long championed through both her teaching and previous academic work.
“I am honoured to be selected as an AoC Research Scholar,” said Angie. “This opportunity brings together my love of research and teaching to explore inclusion in FE and sixth-form education, a field I am deeply committed to. I look forward to working with colleagues across the sector, contributing to the growing body of research, and helping drive meaningful change for learners and educators alike.”
William Baldwin, Principal at BHASVIC, added:
“We are delighted that Angie has been chosen to join Research Further. Her background in psychology and her passion for inclusive teaching and learning make her a perfect candidate, building on the research she has already undertaken and shared with the sector.”
Angie’s appointment reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to excellence in education, innovation, and evidence-based practice. Her work will not only benefit students locally, but also contribute to national conversations about inclusion and equity in further education.
Joining Angie in this year’s cohort are Jamie Pearson from Darlington College, whose research explores the use of generative AI in education, and Beth Wolstenholme from Leeds City College, who will investigate the impact of secondary trauma on safeguarding officers in FE. Together, these scholars represent a new wave of practitioner-led research that aims to inform and inspire change across the UK’s college sector.
Julia Belgutay, Head of Communications, Media, Marketing and Research at AoC, commented:
“We are delighted to welcome Jamie, Angela and Beth to the Research Further programme. Their work represents the very best of what further education can achieve - driven by curiosity, grounded in practice, and focused on real-world impact.”
BHASVIC would like to congratulate Angie on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to supporting her journey as she contributes to shaping the future of inclusive education.