Nathan awarded Fellowship with the Higher Education Academy
Nathan has been elected a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE), a prestigious recognition of his dedication to innovative and inclusive teaching in higher education.
“You foster a dynamic, collaborative environment that actively enables students to take ownership of learning. This must be highly motivating for your students.”
Nathan’s fellowship was praised by evaluators for his student-centred approach, dynamic teaching methods, and commitment to accessibility in music education. One reviewer noted: "I have enjoyed reading your application. It is a comprehensive, highly reflective account of your practice that clearly shows your commitment to providing your students with an inclusive and engaging curriculum. You foster a dynamic, collaborative environment that actively enables students to take ownership of learning. This must be highly motivating for your students."
The feedback also highlighted Nathan’s meticulous course design, which supports a diverse range of learners through scaffolded exercises, flexible adjustments, and opportunities for students to deepen their practice - including student-led action plans after feedback.
A second evaluator added: "You clearly evidence how you meet the criteria... through your reflections on and evaluation of your substantive practice, such as your use of dialogic responses and community interaction... Your development project focuses on changing music tastes, democratisation, and inclusivity through your approach to soundscapes creation."
This project - enabling students to create soundscapes regardless of music literacy - was singled out as a standout example of inclusive design.
Beyond teaching, Nathan’s professional development was further highlighted in the report, through pedagogical research, mentorship of emerging composers, and collaboration with colleagues further demonstrating his impact on the field.
What does the Fellowship mean?
Advance HE (formerly known as the Higher Education Academy) is a global organization dedicated to improving higher education through teaching excellence, leadership, and inclusive practices. Its Fellowship scheme recognises educators who demonstrate a proven commitment to high-quality teaching and student support. Achieving Fellowship is a significant professional milestone, as it validates an educator’s expertise in pedagogy, curriculum design, and student engagement
Fellowships are awarded based on evidence of personal professional practice that meets the requirements of the Professional Standards Framework 2023 (PSF 2023), the teaching and learning standards framework for the higher education sector.
