An introduction to KSVBs
An Introduction to KSVBs
At the heart of this programme are the Knowledge, Skills, Values and Behaviours (KSVBs). These form the core expectations for apprentices.
What are KSVBs?
- Knowledge: What you need to know to be an effective academic - this includes educational theory, policy, curriculum design and your own subject expertise.
- Skills: What you need to be able to do - such as planning learning activities, giving feedback, assessing students and using educational technologies.
- Values: The principles and attitudes you bring - like respect for learners, commitment to equity and a dedication to continuous improvement.
- Behaviours: How you act in your role - such as being reflective, responsive to feedback and working collaboratively with others.
How are the KSVBs organised?
To help structure and reflect on your development, the KSVBs are mapped along two dimensions:
From Skills to Knowledge
This dimension moves from the practical application of your role (skills) to the theoretical and conceptual understanding that informs your decisions (knowledge).
From Understanding the Basics to Leading New Understanding
This reflects your journey from developing competence in core areas, to contributing to educational leadership, innovation, and potentially even influencing others’ practice.
Together, these dimensions create a framework that supports progression – from applying foundational skills to leading with advanced knowledge and expertise.
Within this framework, the KSVBs are grouped into four areas:
Core Skills (CS) – The fundamental teaching skills needed in everyday academic practice, such as facilitating learning, supporting students and using feedback effectively.
Core Knowledge (CK) – The foundational educational knowledge required for understanding learning theories, curriculum design, assessment practices and the higher education context.
Teaching Specialist Skills (TSS) – More advanced or specialist skills used in leadership, innovation, and enhancing learning at a programme or institutional level.
Teaching Specialist Knowledge (TSK) – Deep subject-specific or pedagogical knowledge that supports high-level curriculum development, educational research or mentorship.
Each of these areas supports your role as a clinical educator and provides a clear structure for your professional development.
Why is this important?
Understanding the KSVBs helps you:
- Identify your strengths and areas for development
- Set goals for your professional learning
- Meet the expectations for academic roles in higher education
- Provide high-quality, student-centred education
As you go through the programme, you'll explore each of these areas in more detail, with opportunities to reflect on your own practice and apply what you learn in your teaching context.
