The University of Westminster recently launched a prize in memory of former Senior Lecturer in Journalism Patrick Stoddart, who died in 2024. This award aims to encourage and recognise excellence in student journalism at Westminster and offer students funding and industry mentorship.
Patrick began his career in local newspapers in the 1960s at the Watford Observer, before reaching the peak of his professional career at the BBC and The Sunday Times. He joined Westminster in 2005 and taught for over a decade and a half before his retirement in 2021.
The award, set up by his wife Nicolette Stoddart after his death, is open to all Digital Media BA Honours students within the School of Media and Communications, as well as Multimedia Journalism MA students studying either on the broadcast or print and online pathways.
To enter the competition, students must submit a piece of work from one of their modules in any medium, such as written, audio, online or video. The winner will receive £600 and mentorship with a media professional, either a former colleague of Patrick Stoddart or one of his former students now working in the industry.
Nicolette Stoddart said: “Patrick’s love for and pride in his students was immeasurable. He would have hugely approved of this award, so I hope many will submit their work and be part of commemorating his work with all at the University through 16 years. His belief in the power and lyricism of the written word knew no bounds and his abiding joy was to share it with those who would come after him.”
Jim McClellan, former Principal Lecturer in Journalism at Westminster, added: “Patrick loved to make his classes challenging but also fun. He wanted students to laugh as they learned. He used to finish off his modules with quizzes and handed out fake Oscar statuettes and homemade medals at the end for completing the dissertation. So, it feels very appropriate that there’s now an annual award in his name, recognising the best student journalistic work at Westminster. He would have loved it.”
Submissions, or any questions about the award, should be sent to Senior Lecturer David Lancaster.
The award directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Media and Communication courses at the University of Westminster.
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