Tag: Edinburgh Napier University

Next generation of innovators inspired by support from collaborative health and social care initiative

Formal NHS Scotland partner InnoScot Health is proud to be part of a collaborative programme aiming to develop fresh health and social care innovations that can help solve clinical problems. 

Led by Heriot-Watt and Edinburgh Napier Universities with InnoScot Health support, the initiative – labelled a “first of its kind research collaboration” – has seen engineering and nursing students pooling capabilities and know-how to hone breakthrough ideas. 

It is hoped that the programme could help to progress innovations into products, leading to better patient outcomes while aiding healthcare staff in integrating innovative approaches into their daily activities. 

InnoScot Health signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Heriot-Watt’s Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) in 2022, leveraging significant expertise to accelerate medical and healthcare opportunities. 

The organisation has now helped to encourage what it calls “the next generation of health and social care innovators” by providing real world project briefs to teams of Heriot-Watt engineering students while helping them build consulting and client engagement skills.  

The promising ideas from NHS Scotland innovators were first submitted to InnoScot Health, which has since acted as their client and liaison point. 

The learnings of the student engineering project teams – enhanced by clinical insights from Edinburgh Napier University’s nursing students and access to its specialised clinical simulation facilities – are now expected to lead to improved co-designed projects. 

There are currently three ideas being developed, each of which have originated from different health boards across the country – a catheter redesign from NHS Fife; cannula cuff from NHS Forth Valley; and wobble stool from NHS Grampian. 

InnoScot Health Innovation Manager Fiona Schaefer said: “Collaborating on this Heriot-Watt and Edinburgh Napier University link-up offers an excellent and important opportunity for engineering students to learn more about the demands of health and social care, to understand how products are used, and see a simulated NHS environment in action. 

“Likewise, nursing students and healthcare professionals can offer feedback on prototypes with the opportunity to test them more easily and safely than would have been possible by going into hospitals and healthcare settings.  

“At the same time, they have also been encouraged to think about innovation, to realise that they have a lot to offer, and recognise the value of their know-how for future career progression. We hope this inspires them to see opportunities to develop new ideas when they soon start working in health and social care as registered healthcare professionals.” 

She added: “Developing NHS ideas with student teams offers a great way to take forward early ideas to get closer to practical solutions. It’s clear that all three teams are really engaged, and we’re excited by the possibilities.

“I have also recently spoken to Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Masters students who have innovation modules as part of their course so hope there may be new avenues of innovation to explore with them too.” 

Maïwenn Kersaudy-Kerhoas a Professor in Microfluidic Engineering at Heriot-Watt University and the lead academic for its new global research institute in Health and Care Technologies, has been described by InnoScot Health as “instrumental” in realising the link-up with Edinburgh Napier University through its Professor of Simulation and Clinical Skills, Cathal Breen. 

Maïwenn said: “This collaboration will ensure an excellent student experience and we are very enthusiastic about the interface between nursing and engineering. 

“Nurses are the closest to patient needs on a daily basis. By championing this first-hand knowledge and expertise, we enable nurses to co-create and help deliver innovation. Alongside this, our engineering students benefit from detailed real-world feedback on their health and care engineering concepts.” 

Cathal Breen, Professor of Simulation and Clinical Skills at Edinburgh Napier, said: “Nurses are an untapped reservoir of innovative solutions for the health and care sector. 

“In this new agreement, our students will identify potentially suitable clinical problems and work with engineering students at Heriot-Watt to design solutions to real-life clinical problems. It is hugely exciting.” 

Hundreds of care experienced learners supported as Hub celebrates five years of Success

The Hub for Success aims to help more people from care into further and higher education

The team behind an innovative service, which supports care experienced people along their journey in education, is marking its fifth anniversary – having already transformed hundreds of lives.

Since it was set up in February 2018, The Hub for Success (Support for University and College for Care Experienced in South-East Scotland) has provided one-to-one support to 628 care experienced learners and responded to 1,241 enquiries.

The project was established to address low rates of higher education admission and retention for people who have spent time in care, which were initially highlighted by Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) research.

It offers individual and impartial advice on topics such as courses, accommodation, and finance to help them get in, stay in, or return to education.

Among the students it has supported in the last five years, 43% got into further or higher education – significantly higher than the national average for care experienced learners.

The Hub has since evolved from being solely a one-stop support service, taking on a more strategic role of amplifying the voices of care experienced learners and tackling the barriers they face.

ENU hosts its team of staff members – which has grown to five – while working alongside fellow core partners Heriot-Watt University, the University of Edinburgh, Queen Margaret University, the Open University in Scotland, Edinburgh College, West Lothian College, Newbattle Abbey College, and City of Edinburgh Council.

A recent independent evaluation of the Hub for Success found it has already “implemented the vast majority of its intended work,” adding that it could act as a model to be replicated in other parts of Scotland. It was also praised by First Minister Humza Yousaf as “vital” to improving the lives of care experienced people during a visit earlier this month.

Staff, partners, and some of the learners who have benefited from the service were among those who marked the Hub’s first five years of work during an anniversary event yesterday (Tuesday 20 February).

Alistair Stewart is one of the Hub’s student ambassadors – and is now completing a degree at Edinburgh Napier University. He said: “Our colleges and universities are stronger if each and every learner has what they need to thrive and succeed.

“This applies even more so to those with care experience, who often don’t have the familial supports or scaffolding of support around them.

“The Hub helped with course planning, financial planning and giving me encouragement and courage to believe that I could do this. They then helped me with the ‘staying in’ part, with a range of practical, emotional and relationship-based support.

“Three years later I am about to graduate and have been offered a masters. I have also been promoted to senior student ambassador with the Hub for Success and now take a role in designing and delivering our work.”

Lorraine Moore, Hub for Success manager said: “What a journey the last five years have been. The time has been packed full of learning from the care experienced people we serve, and the student ambassadors I am privileged to have as colleagues.

“No journey is ever straightforward, no path even, but this is a journey I would gladly take again, as I know I would continue to learn. 

“From one care experienced character to all you others, thank you.”

Advisory board member, and Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University, Professor Andrea Nolan, said: “I’m in awe of the talent, tenacity, and motivation our care experienced students show.

“We are delighted to have them join the Edinburgh Napier community, and I take particular joy in hearing about their achievements.

“I hope the impact of the Hub will mean many more care experienced learners can join and continue their educational journey with us as a platform for building successful and fulfilling careers.”

Are you care experienced? Interested in getting back into learning? The Hub can be contacted here.

Linlithgow lad celebrates Local Legend tag by Specsavers as he rises through refereeing ranks 

A LINLITHGOW referee has received the accolade of ‘Local Legend’ as part of Specsavers’ partnership with the Scottish FA. 

With thousands of people giving up their time each week across the country to ensure their community can enjoy football, the Local Legends campaign aims to shine a light on the unsung heroes dedicated to grassroots football. 

Cameron Stirling, from Linlithgow, has been recognised as a Local Legend for his dedication to refereeing and for promoting officiating to youngsters as a route for development within football. 

At just 21, Cameron is a category three referee, balancing officiating Lowland League games with his studies at Edinburgh Napier University. 

The business management and marketing student is also a Youth Referee Ambassador, starting out in refereeing at just 16, making the senior list at 17, and hopes to one day officiate a game in the Scottish Premiership. 

Speaking upon receiving the award, Cameron said, ‘I’ve played football pretty much my whole life and just love the game. 

‘It’s very nice to be recognised and I’m honoured to receive it, especially when the nomination came from my peers in the referees’ department.’ 

From Stranraer to Banks O’ Dee, Cameron has already travelled the length and breadth of the country as both a referee and a linesman. 

His passion for the game comes from growing up playing football, but now hopes refereeing can provide him with a path to the top. 

As part of his recognition, last November Cameron enjoyed a day out at Hampden Park to watch Scotland’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Norway in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match, courtesy of Specsavers and the Scottish FA. 

Cameron also received a signed Scotland top from Steve Clarke’s men’s national squad as a part of their accolade. 

Specsavers’ Arlene Stephenson, Scottish Divisional Chair, says: ‘Specsavers is proud of our long tradition in backing Scottish referees, but our current partnership sees us going further than ever, helping to raise awareness of grassroots football across the country. 

‘Our Local Legends campaign is all about shining a spotlight on those away from the glamour of the top divisions, but who work just as hard to ensure Scotland’s communities benefit from the beautiful game. 

‘From managing their local teams and making sure the pitch is in top shape for matchday, to referees making sure everyone’s game goes ahead or even just fervently following your club for decades – these unsung heroes embody what football is all about.  

‘We are delighted to celebrate Cameron’s contribution to both football and his profession as a referee, particularly for one so young. 

‘In our eyes, he truly is a Local Legend.’ 

Specsavers announced in 2021 that it renewed its’ sponsorship deal with football referees in Scotland, marking more than 20 years of support – one of the longest agreements of its kind in sport. 

The deal has seen the partnership continue into 2024, not only helping with the training and development of referees, but also helping to raise awareness of para football and grassroots football in Scotland. 

Edinburgh Napier put misunderstood condition PCOS in the spotlight ahead of International Women’s Day

A public event will bring together women with the condition, clinicians, researchers and support services


ENU’s Centre for Biomedicine and Global Health and PCOS Relief will host a public event with an expert panel on the eve of International Women’s Day.

Bringing together women with the condition, clinicians, researchers and support services, it will aim to discuss Polycystic Ovary Syndrome from the perspective of those diagnosed with it, and from the medical community.

The event will also highlight support that is currently available to those diagnosed with PCOS and consider new emerging research around it.

Mick Rae, Professor of Reproductive Biology at Edinburgh Napier, and event co-organiser said: “The aim of this event is to ensure PCOS is better understood, and more effectively supported. 

“By teaming up with PCOS Relief, we hope to drive awareness, understanding and support for all dealing with the condition.”

Chand Kaur, Founder and Chief Executive of PCOS Relief, will be on the expert panel. She said: “We set up PCOS Relief to provide support to women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, while advancing education, equality, and dedicated support services.

“This is the first event of its kind that we have ever put on, so have high hopes that it will help us achieve those aims.”

Professor Colin Duncan, Consultant in Reproductive Medicine in Edinburgh and expert panel member, who will address clinical and diagnostic aspects of the condition, said: “Polycystic ovary syndrome is a very common condition that isn’t talked about enough.

“There are a lot of myths about PCOS and educational events such as this can highlight what we know already about this condition, and what we need to focus on in the future”.

Dr Kasia Siemienowicz, Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University, will also appear on the expert panel to discuss new PCOS findings emerging from Edinburgh-based research. She said: “In addition to the more widely known impacts upon fertility, those with PCOS are at increased risk of developing metabolic dysfunctions and obesity.

“These issues can pose significant health, well-being, and economic burdens. Therefore it is critical to better understand PCOS, and ultimately, to advance future treatments.”

Campus building photography 2020 by Student Ambassador Adriana-Iloana Cosma. Craiglockhart iecture theatre interior.

Professor Peter Barlow, Director of Edinburgh Napier University’s Centre for Biomedicine and Global Health said: “Public-facing events like this, where individuals can share their experience of PCOS with researchers, clinicians, and the wider public, can encourage more holistic approaches to PCOS care and research.

“As a multi-disciplinary group of scientists focused upon understanding origins and causes of disease, we are absolutely delighted to work with the charity PCOS Relief to support this effort.”

Professor Anna Glasier OBE, Women’s Health Champion for Scotland said: “PCOS affects women throughout the life course with symptoms often starting in the teenage years. PCOS does not go away.

“Although the menstrual symptoms disappear with the menopause, postmenopausal women who have PCOS are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome and heart disease.

“The Women’s Health platform on NHS Inform now provides a lot of information on PCOS including a short, helpful video explaining what it is and what treatments may be useful.

“This platform, together with meetings like this one will help women and healthcare providers have a greater understanding of PCOS.”

Event details:

Date: Thursday 7th March 2024

Time: 6pm – 8:30pm

Venue: Lindsay Stewart Lecture Theatre, Edinburgh Napier University Craiglockhart Campus, 219 Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1DJ

Edinburgh Napier University appoints Lynne Cadenhead as Entrepreneur in Residence

The Women’s Enterprise Scotland chair brings a wealth of experience to the role

Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) has announced serial entrepreneur, experienced tech sector leader, and chair of Women’s Enterprise Scotland (WES) Lynne Cadenhead as its newest Entrepreneur in Residence.

The move, which is part of an effort to foster innovation and entrepreneurial excellence, will see Lynne provide support and expert advice at the University.

An alumna of ENU with a background in life sciences, Professor Lynne Cadenhead brings a remarkable track record to the role. She started and grew three successful businesses, and has more than 25 years of entrepreneurial, equity investment, and policy experience.

Lynne has also drawn recognition for her work to support women into entrepreneurship, through her post as chair of WES and as Women’s Advocate and Investor Relations Director for Tricapital Angels Limited.

In her new role as Entrepreneur in Residence, Lynne Cadenhead will join The Royal Society’s Entrepreneur in Residence scheme, a part of the Science, Industry, and Translation programme. This initiative aims to enhance knowledge and awareness in UK universities of cutting-edge industrial science, research, and innovation.

As Entrepreneur in Residence, Lynne will be actively involved in fostering a more entrepreneurial environment for women across Edinburgh Napier University.

This reflects the University’s commitment to encouraging and supporting women in entrepreneurship, aligning with its dedication to driving positive change and advancing gender equality.

Lynne Cadenhead said: “I am honoured to be taking up the role of Entrepreneur in Residence at Edinburgh Napier University.

“If we want to unlock Scotland’s economic potential, we need to champion the entrepreneurial spirit across academia and contribute to a culture of innovation.

“Drawing from my own journey, I am particularly excited about supporting and inspiring women in enterprise, as they face numerous additional barriers when it comes to starting and growing a business.

“This new role will allow me to actively contribute to the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial mindset for all.”

Nick Fannin, Head of Enterprise at Bright Red Triangle, ENU’s enterprise hub, said: “We are thrilled to have Lynne Cadenhead join us as our latest Entrepreneur in Residence.

“Lynne’s incredible personal experience in building companies and her commitment to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurial women aligns perfectly with Edinburgh Napier’s mission to nurture and support the women in our university community, enabling them to have real impact in their academic careers, and to commercialise their research.

“We believe Lynne’s expertise will have a profound impact on our students, staff, and alumni as they embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.

“Lynne’s presence will be a tremendous asset to our community, and we are committed to bringing about positive change.”

‘Libraries of Inspiration’ aim to encourage underrepresented children into engineering

Project has been backed by nearly £100k in funding

Girls, young carers and children from other backgrounds which are underrepresented in engineering will be offered educational kits as part of an Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) project designed to bring STEM-related subjects to life.

‘Libraries of Inspiration’ has been awarded a grant of £99,700 from The Royal Academy of Engineering’s Diversity Impact Programme to launch in areas across central Scotland, including Edinburgh, West Lothian and North Lanarkshire.

The project, which is led by Dr Debbie Meharg from ENU’s School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, aims to empower 12 and 13-year-olds to become future leaders in the engineering industry by demonstrating how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics shape the world around them.

It will see 10 subject-specific resources co-created by students, school staff, and academics, which are then housed in high school libraries.

The kits are to be designed for various underrepresented backgrounds, incorporating topics like fashion, film, and sustainability.

They will explore cutting-edge technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, sound, robotics, information systems, and AI – while using peer groups and role models to build confidence.

Libraries of Inspiration is one of three new projects to be backed by the Diversity Impact Programme, which aims to address unequal outcomes experienced by engineering students from diverse groups. This is the third round of grants to be awarded since it launched in 2021.

The Programme is funded through the Academy’s allocation of funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Debbie Meharg

Dr Debbie Meharg, Associate Professor and Head of Applied Informatics at ENU said: “It’s really exciting to be launching a project which will encouraging girls, young carers, and underrepresented pupils to pursue computing and engineering careers.

“It is not just about fairness, it’s about unlocking the full potential of these pupils, giving them opportunities and also for the betterment of society, the economy, and the field of engineering.

“The concept of a library provides a familiar and inclusive space for individuals to find agency and inspiration.

“It allows them to explore new technologies, break down barriers, and discover their own path.”

Joanna Whiteman, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: “I find it impossible to overstate how vital it is that we find new and better ways to tackle the long-standing inequality of experience and outcomes for engineering students and graduates from underrepresented groups.

“So I am encouraged to see how the Diversity Impact Programme is unlocking such ingenuity on the part of staff and students as they collaborate to tackle this problem together.

“Emerging findings from the projects we have supported to date are already providing important insights into how universities can cultivate more inclusive cultures at a critical stage for aspiring engineers.”

Cost of living crisis forces low-income households to ‘drastically modify’ travel habits

Edinburgh architecture. Trafic on Princes Streeet in front of Edinburgh Castle.

An Edinburgh Napier University study suggests inflation has worsened transport inequalities

The cost of living crisis has deepened inequalities in the way people in Scotland are able to travel, according to an Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) study.

Analysis of Transport Scotland survey results by researchers at ENU’s Transport Research Institute (TRI) and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki show that rising inflation during 2022 disproportionately affected how those from low-income households and ethnic minorities can get about.

More than one in four respondents said they had changed their usual mode of transport to save money, while nearly 38% appeared to reduce their number of journeys.

While people on low incomes were forced to ‘drastically modify’ their travel habits, soaring costs also had an unequal effect on women, millennials, rural residents, and people with disabilities.

The study concludes that more action needs to be taken to make transport more affordable and accessible, in order to prevent people from becoming socially isolated.

Staff portraits October 2018 Achille Fonzone

Achille Fonzone, Professor of Transport Analysis and Planning at Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, said: “These findings shed light on how the cost of living crisis has exacerbated already existing inequalities in how people are able to get around.

“Travel makes up a large portion of people’s overall spending, and greatly influences inflation. Although latest figures signal an encouraging trend around personal vehicles and fuel, public transport fares are increasing above the general rise in living costs.

“If remedial measures are not taken soon by central government and local authorities, disparities will only deepen further.”

Greg Fountas, Assistant Professor at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and Associate member of TRI, added: “During times of economic crisis, public transport should be leading the way towards more affordable, sustainable travel, otherwise more and more people will be at risk of transport poverty and, in turn, social exclusion.

“Prioritising investment in policies such as fare caps, concessionary ticket schemes, improved active travel infrastructure or community transport programmes would not only help narrow these inequalities, but also help us towards environmental targets.” 

Other conclusions from the study, ‘The Impact of the Cost-Of-Living Crisis on Travel Choices of Scottish Residents: An Exploratory Analysis’, include:

·        People living in the central belt, with more public transport options, were more likely to have changed how they travel, while people in Highlands and Islands were more prone to reducing the number of journeys  

·        Generally, respondents were more likely to reduce their trips rather than change transport method because of cost 

·        Those who responded to the survey later in 2022 were more likely to have changed their habits, as the impact of the cost of living crisis was felt 

·        Being from a low-income household was the most significant variable on reducing journeys 

·        Women were more likely to cut down on trips than men 

The Public Attitudes Survey by Transport Scotland, which was first conducted in 2020, formed the basis for this study. Three waves of the survey were carried out in 2022, the last of which coincided with inflation surpassing 11% – a 41-year high. Answers from 2,705 people, who were deemed representative of ‘a key strata’ of the Scottish population, were statistically analysed.

The findings, which are undergoing peer review, will be presented to a conference in the United States next year.

Edinburgh Napier researchers launch ‘smart city playbook’ for United Nations

‘Managing smart city governance’ draws on Scottish examples of harnessing digital technology

A new United Nations resource to help cities around the world harness the benefits of digital technology has been completed and launched by researchers at Edinburgh Napier University.

‘Managing smart city governance’ is described as a playbook of practical recommendations to improve urban life with the use of cutting-edge tech.

Professor Luca Mora and Dr Paolo Gerli from ENU’s Business School led the research team behind it, offering practical guidance to local and regional governments leading ‘smart city’ projects. Existing examples include real-time monitoring of traffic data, and online platforms to enhance civic participation.

The recommendations are intended to help develop more effective, inclusive, and sustainable urban areas, by showing how cities worldwide have been successfully dealing with the ethical, societal and environmental implications of digital technologies.

The final publication draws on examples from Scotland for cities in other parts of the world to follow, including the collaborative Scottish Cities Alliance, the launch of the Scottish Digital Academy, and Glasgow’s Participatory Budgeting Evaluation Toolkit.

Professor Mora presented the final document to the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona on Wednesday.

Reacting to the launch, he said: “This playbook draws together evidence-based advice, offering what we hope will be guidance that makes a positive difference around the world.

“Digital technology offers many opportunities for leaders of local and municipal governments – and it could revolutionise the quality of life for people who live in urban areas.

“The potential of these technologies is almost limitless, so it is important that they are put in place strategically and collaboratively to make the most of them.”

The playbook itself is based on a review of existing evidence, a survey of local government leaders from 250 municipalities across five continents, and interviews with 131 experts from 37 different countries. The findings are then split into three pillars: strategy, collaborative ecosystem and technology.

As well as ENU, the playbook was jointly produced by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, and Tallinn University of Technology.

New graduate Lewis is flying high after student life in the fast lane

Formula Student leader Lewis Kaye is already putting his software engineering degree to use

A new Edinburgh Napier University graduate, who led his student colleagues to Silverstone success with a driverless car, has landed his dream job working on jet aircraft radar.

Lewis Kaye used the skills from his BEng (Hons) Software Engineering course to found the Formula Student Team Napier Driverless Team in the summer of last year – who were tasked with designing the system behind an autonomous racing vehicle.

Just a year later, they finished fourth in an event dubbed the world’s biggest student engineering competition at the home of the British Grand Prix.

The 23-year-old from Oldmeldrum in Aberdeenshire collected his degree at the Usher Hall last week, having started work at Leonardo’s Edinburgh base working on the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Lewis said: “I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I left school. I went to an Edinburgh Napier open day and eventually picked software engineering. I’ve certainly never regretted it since!

“The Formula Student team didn’t exist at all until a couple of years ago. I just happened to bump into Lucas, who was behind it, at a university social event.

“Because of my degree, it was the perfect opportunity to start a driverless team. Thankfully, a lot of people were interested in joining.

“Formula Student was probably vital to landing the job. It really came to light when I did my interview. I did a presentation of my work with the team, and I think that hit well.”

Lewis’s driverless team of around 15 ENU students were the only group from around 20 teams in this year’s IMechE Formula Student competition to complete the 10 lap Endurance Event without hitting a cone. They finished one point away from 3rd place overall.

Lewis added: “To get that result in our first ever year competing is unheard of in the FS-AI competition, and I think really demonstrates our achievement and what we can do when we put our minds to it.

“What makes me proudest is seeing the idea grow into a talented and welcoming team that will be here to stand for years to come, and that future students can get involved with such a fantastic project alongside their main degree. I have made some unforgettable friendships along the way.

“It’s one of those things, you keep your head down and keep working, and later you take a step back and say ‘yeah, this is pretty cool!”

As for the future, Lewis concluded: “I’d love to get involved in space one day. I just want to keep improving.”

Aussie rules football umpire ditches Hawaii for Edinburgh to pick up degree during honeymoon

A top-level umpire in Australian rules football has called half-time on his honeymoon to attend his Edinburgh Napier University graduation ceremony.

John Howorth and his wife Morgan, who are from Melbourne, decided to combine the trip to collect his MSc Performance Enhancement in Sports Officiating with their first holiday as a married couple.

The pair tied the knot in January – following two Covid-related postponements – while John continued his studies online from Australia.

The 30-year-old AFL whistler had no hesitation in planning the romantic getaway around his walk across the stage at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall – braving the rain and donning a kilt for the occasion.

He said: “Originally Morgan wanted to go to Hawaii, but when our wedding got postponed it didn’t work with the footy calendar. When I found out my graduation date, coming here worked perfectly.

“I’ve always wanted to come to Scotland to play golf, so coming here because of uni was no problem.

“When I brought it up with Morgan she said she’d be happy to pack the big jumpers!”

John credits his time at ENU for bringing about a big improvement in his performance as an AFL umpire – where he takes charge of big matches in Australia’s most popular sport.

He had been officiating at the top level for two years, before he decided to apply.

John said: “I’d made the jump to elite level and found it quite confronting, so I wanted to find a way to improve. I was looking for any avenue to get better – because I had to.

“In my first year in the course I was in the bottom 10% of the umpires’ ranking. Within 12 months I was in the top 40%. It was a jump you’d normally be expected to take five or six years to make.

“Consciously I wasn’t doing anything different, but the stats told it all. The course was a little golden nugget for me.

“It wasn’t a big cohort, but we had a great range of people from different sports to compare experiences with.

“I hadn’t done anything like this before. I found it very challenging at first, but the lecturers held my hand all the way through.”

Edinburgh Napier’s MSc Performance Enhancing in Sports Officiating is the first course of its kind at a Masters level, offering teaching tailored to the students’ needs – including skills like communication, game management, high-pressure decision making and leadership.

The first cohort graduated last year, with current and past students including officials from football, basketball, cricket and rugby.

Programme Leader and Associate Professor of Sport Psychology & Coaching with Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Applied Sciences, Dr Duncan Mascarenhas, said: “John will be the first to admit that when he began he was not an experienced academic, but he brought incredible drive, enthusiasm and energy to the group.

“He soon showed that his studies were innovative – and because he operated at the highest level of AFL he was able to show real measurable improvements in his decision accuracy levels.

“In one ‘what happened next?’ study, he developed a training package designed to develop game understanding in a group of community level umpires, which increased his accuracy levels.

“Johnny was class representative for the cohort and other staff have commented how they’re going to miss him at meetings, for his no-nonsense approach and positivity.”

Following their trip to Scotland – with John even making time for a round of golf at St Andrews – the happy couple will conclude the honeymoon in France before heading home.

Edinburgh Napier’s autumn graduation ceremonies were held between 24-26 October at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall. Tthe nearby Shakespeare’s pub, on Lothian Road, was renamed The Napier Graduate for the occasion.