Nathan awarded a 2026 Education Excellence Award
Nathan has been awarded the Royal Holloway Education Excellence Award for Excellence Early in Career, recognising his outstanding contribution to education and the student experience at the University.
The award celebrates colleagues who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, innovation, leadership and student support. With more than 200 nominations received from staff and students across the Royal Holloway University of London, the award acknowledges exceptional achievement in higher education.
Dearden's award recognises his significant contribution to music education through initiatives including the New Music Collective, New Voices Consort, and the New Sounds Festival. These projects have created opportunities for students to perform contemporary repertoire, collaborate with leading composers and practitioners, and gain valuable professional experience through innovative creative projects.
The recognition also acknowledges the impact of the Picture Gallery Composer-in-Residence Programme, which has expanded opportunities for composition students while fostering a vibrant and inclusive creative community. Alongside these initiatives, Dearden has been recognised for his commitment to continually developing his teaching practice, designing innovative and accessible learning experiences, and supporting colleagues across the Department of Music through curriculum development and instrumental and vocal provision.
The award further highlights Dearden's work in transforming the Department of Music's digital presence. His strategic approach to social media has significantly increased engagement with prospective students and audiences, with initiatives recognised as examples of best practice and adopted more widely across the University.
Commenting on the award, Dearden said:
"I am incredibly honoured to receive this award. Creating opportunities for students to create, make mistakes, and learn has always been at the heart of my work, and it is a privilege to be recognised in this way. I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues and inspiring students, whose enthusiasm and creativity continually motivate me. This award is as much a reflection of those collaborations as it is of my own work, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my time at Royal Holloway."
Nathan at Royal Holloway
Dr Nathan James Dearden is Associate Professor in Music Composition at Royal Holloway, University of London, where he teaches composition and creative practice across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Alongside his academic role, he serves as Composer-in-Residence with the Choir of Royal Holloway and leads a number of artistic initiatives, including the New Music Collective, New Voices Consort, and the annual New Sounds Festival. Through these roles, he creates opportunities for students to work alongside leading artists, perform new music, and gain practical experience as composers and performers. Read more.
Watch
The Education Excellence Awards were presented during Royal Holloway's Summer Graduation ceremonies, celebrating colleagues who have made an exceptional contribution to education and the student experience. You can watch the graduation ceremony and award giving here: https://intranet.royalholloway.ac.uk/students/study/graduation/summer-graduation/video/2026/friday-24th-july-10am.aspx
