What if assessment rubrics could be more than just grading tools? In this episode, we sit down with Gareth Kennard-Holden to explore the ambitious project of reimagining rubrics across healthcare subjects. From co-designing with students and staff, to crafting clearer language and a glossary, to creating a linked progression that spans levels 4 to 7, this new model is transforming how learners understand their academic journey. With over 1,000 pieces of feedback shaping the final design, we discuss the power of collaboration, the shift toward shared assessment literacy, and the potential ripple effects across disciplines and institutions.

Gareth Kennard-Holden is a lecturer in adult nursing at the University of South Wales (USW), having previously worked as a community nurse and research nurse for 15 years, his passion is student voice, empowerment and compassion in assessment and feedback as well as the wider field of education. He has led a group of staff and students to redesign the assessment marking rubrics across nursing and other healthcare courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. If you would like to get in touch with Gareth and learn more about the work, he and his colleagues at USW are doing his email address is gareth.kennard-holden@southwales.ac.uk.