UoG forensic psychology experts receive UK Legal Award for academic excellence

University of Gloucestershire experts have won a UK Legal Award for their dedication to academic excellence in developing the next generation of forensic psychologists and criminal justice professionals.

The academics, practitioners and pracademics that deliver the University’s MSc Forensic Psychology programme have received the UK Legal Awards ‘Academic Excellence Award 2026: Forensic Psychology Education and Research’ for the second time in three years.

The UK Legal Awards – presented by SME News – celebrate and showcase organisations and individuals who are demonstrating pioneering approaches, providing elevated client care and showing a dedication to excellence that sets new standards across the profession. 

The University’s MSc Forensic Psychology programme enables students to underpin their practice with a sound appreciation of academic research evidence. It provides an understanding of the forensic psychologist’s role in investigative and legal processes, including the assessment and treatment of offenders. As such, it reflects the diversity of contemporary forensic psychology practice.

Students have access to the current research that members of the academic team delivering the programme – accredited by the British Psychological Society – are undertaking. This informs their understanding and development, exemplifying the University’s dedication to research-informed teaching.

Dr Amy Grubb, Associate Professor of Forensic Psychologyand Academic Course Lead for the MSc Forensic Psychology programme, said: “Everyone involved in delivering our programme is proud to have received the Academic Excellence Award 2026: Forensic Psychology Education and Research for the second time in three years.

“It reflects the team’s dedication to providing our students with a consistently high-quality experience and equipping them with specialised skills and knowledge, through research and teaching, that prepares them for successful careers in forensic psychology and the wider criminal justice sector.

“We’re extremely grateful to our partner organisations, including government and privately operated prisons, local police constabularies and third sector organisations, for their collaboration in shaping and delivering the programme.

“These valuable partnerships provide our students with opportunities to work alongside experienced academics and practitioners in professional settings where academic knowledge is blended with real-world application – bringing learning to life.”

Picture: left to right, Dr Richard Clarke (Senior Lecturer in Psychology), Dr Charlotte Kite (Lecturer in Forensic Psychology), Dr Amy Grubb (Associate Professor of Forensic Psychology), Amber Gash (Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology), Dr Laura Castillo-Eito (Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology). Members of team not in photo: Dr Camilla Giambonini (Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology) Jo Curtis (Lecturer in Forensic Psychology), Fiona Wilyman (Lecturer in Forensic Psychology)