When Professor Margaret M Clark OBE was born a century ago, few women held senior roles in universities and opportunities in research and academic leadership were limited.

Over the decades that followed, she would help change that landscape – becoming a trailblazer in educational psychology and opening doors for future generations.

As she marks her 100th birthday on May 11, Professor Clark’s century-long life reflects a transformative contribution to education, research and opportunity that continues to resonate.

The great grandmother, who was a key member of staff at the University of Strathclyde from 1966 to 1979, helped to establish the University’s Educational Psychology programme and laid the foundations for what would become a leading area of research and training.

She remains known for championing evidence-based practice in education. The annual Margaret M Clark Prizes in Education, established in 2021 by her son, Strathclyde alumnus Dr Sandy Nairn, to mark her 95th birthday, recognise her lifelong commitment to empowering students and improving educational outcomes.

Awards ceremonies

The Prizes, awarded to high-achieving students in the School of Education at Strathclyde who have overcome significant challenges, reflect her belief in the transformative power of education. Since their inception, five award ceremonies have taken place – with Professor Clark attending twice in person, most recently delivering a lecture at the 2023 ceremony.

A published scholar and internationally recognised expert in early education and literacy, Professor Clark, whose granddaughter Alex Nairn also followed in her footsteps, meaning three generations of the family have Strathclyde links, began her academic journey at the University of Glasgow in the 1940s.

After qualifying as a teacher, Margaret, who herself is left-handed, undertook postgraduate study, including a PhD on left handedness which later became a book published in 1957.  Margaret was invited to join the newly established University of Strathclyde in 1966 where she developed the MSc in Educational Psychology and led a range of funded research projects.

Few women

In 1979 she joined the University of Birmingham as Professor of Education and Head of the Department of Educational Psychology, one of few women in senior academic roles at the time. Margaret, who was born in Scotland during the General Strike in 1926, still serves as Visiting Professor at Birmingham Newman University. In 2006 she was awarded an OBE for services to early childhood education, and last year she published her memoir, My Parallel Lives: Academic and with Family and Friends. 

Margaret’s son, Dr Sandy Nairn, himself also a Visiting Professor at Strathclyde Business School, said: “My mother’s 100th birthday is a remarkable milestone and a moment to celebrate a life dedicated to education, research and public service.

Her determination and belief in the value of learning have shaped not only her own career but also the lives of many others. It is inspiring to see her continue to engage with ideas and debate, and to reflect on the impact she has had across generations.

Margaret was elected to the Reading Hall of Fame in 2017, is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society, and continues to write, publish, and speak on issues of national educational policy.

Professor Deborah Robinson, Head of the School of Education at Strathclyde said: “Professor Clark’s contributions to educational psychology and teacher education are enduring.

"Margaret's story – of scholarship, resilience, and trailblazing leadership – continues to inspire our staff and students. We are proud to celebrate her centenary and her continuing relationship at Strathclyde."