The Centre for Higher Education Professional Development (CHEPD) invited Prof Lesley Le Grange to deliver presentations during the MEd in Higher Education Studies 2026 cohort’s first-semester Block Week on 15 and 17 April 2026. His presentations focused on academic writing processes, research plan, and post-schooling education in South Africa.

Prof Le Grange guided the students through the three key stages of academic writing: pre-writing, drafting, and editing, emphasising the importance of developing ideas, structuring coherent arguments, and refining their written work. Practical techniques such as freewriting, reading academic journals, and mind mapping were reinforced to support students in improving academic writing proficiency.

In addition, his presentations explored the role of research questions and hypotheses in shaping academic research. He also encouraged students to formulate clear, feasible, and relevant research questions, which serve as the foundation for the “golden thread” linking all aspects of a research project. The presentations also highlighted the importance of conducting a critical literature review, identifying research gaps, engaging with scholarly debates and using credible sources while maintaining academic integrity through appropriate citation.

His presentations also addressed post-schooling education and training in South Africa, outlining its structure and strategic importance. The discussion covered higher education, TVET colleges, adult education, and occupational training as part of an integrated system intended to improve access, quality, and employability. The presentations also reflected on key national frameworks, including the White Paper for Post-Schooling Education and Training (2013) and the National Plan for Post-Schooling Education and Training (2021-2030), which seek to expand enrolment, strengthen industry partnerships, and enhance student success.

The presentations provided students with essential tools for academic success while situating their studies within broader transformation goal.

Prof Lesley Le Grange delivers a presentation to MEd in Higher Education Studies students.