UNIVERSITY of Worcester's deputy head of the Institute of Sport and Exercise Science has been awarded one of the country's top teaching awards.

Leverne Barber, deputy head of the Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, is one of only 55 people to receive a National Teaching Fellowship by the Higher Education Academy.

The fellowship scheme recognises, rewards and celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student learning and the teaching profession.

“I am delighted and honoured to have received this award,” she said.

“I have been passionate about learning and teaching my whole career.

“Throughout my work, I have always had the same over-arching goal, to ensure that all students, regardless of gender, ability, ethnicity, or socio-economic background are enabled to fulfil their academic potential.

"This is my understanding of inclusive practice and a belief that I have actively promoted when working with students and colleagues at the University and with other organisations internationally.”

Mrs Barber has shared her approach to a number of renowned sporting universities as well as the Japanese Paralympic Committee, at the Nippon Foundation in Japan.

She has been invited to speak to students and staff at Beijing Sports University.

Mick Donovan, deputy vice chancellor and head of the Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, said: “With a strong track record of leadership in educational innovation and student development, Lerverne’s recent appointment as deputy head of the Institute owed much to her ability to develop and positively inspire staff and students.

“Lerverne has been instrumental in transforming our Institute’s approaches to learning and teaching and has been pro-active in sharing good practice and encouraging innovation.

"The Institute’s success in encouraging staff to engage with learning and teaching innovations and developments is very much an outcome of Lerverne’s personal inspiration and leadership.

“We are extremely proud of her achievement in gaining this prestigious award and the national recognition she deserves.”

Mrs Barber began her career as a secondary school PE teacher before working with teachers as a physical education adviser and has spent the last 15 years at the University.

She is also a key member of the team behind the first International Inclusive Sport Education conference in Beijing which will be held in October.