Student Casework Manager becomes a National Teaching Fellow

Congratulations to Helen Munro, Student Casework Manager in the Quality Enhancement Unit, who has been awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship from Advance HE.

The National Teaching Fellowship scheme recognises and rewards individuals - academic and professional staff - who have had a significant and lasting impact on student success and the teaching profession. Awardees must demonstrate teaching excellence, leadership beyond their role, and a strong commitment to ongoing professional development that enhances teaching, learning, and the student experience.

Helen joined Bangor in 2007 as Student Volunteering Manager, leading student-led community projects. She has since demonstrated excellence in our delivery and student experience. In 2017, she became Student Equality and Diversity Officer, supporting students affected by sexual misconduct, violence, and harassment (SMV&H). Her dedication and commitment to championing SMV&H has raised awareness and driven institutional change. Promoted in 2024 to Student Casework Manager, Helen now oversees student conduct matters while continuing to lead SMV&H initiatives and training.

Helen’s work has also been recognised by the Student Union and through various internal awards, including the Student-Led Teaching Awards in 2023 and 2024, and the competitive Education and Student Experience Award in 2024.

Kathryn Harrison-Graves, Deputy Chief Executive at Advance HE said, "We are delighted to announce the 2025 awards to those with an unwavering commitment to teaching excellence.   

“These newly awarded National Teaching Fellows and CATE teams represent the very best of UK higher education, demonstrating remarkable innovation, dedication and impact on student learning. Their achievements not only benefit their own institutions but inspire excellence across the entire sector. At a time when higher education faces unprecedented challenges, these awards celebrate the transformative power of outstanding teaching and collaboration." 

Sue Moss, Academic Registrar, said, “Helen is an exceptional colleague whose leadership in supporting students affected by sexual misconduct, violence, and harassment has had a transformative impact. Her work has strengthened staff training and institutional awareness, and I’m thrilled to see her achievements recognised with a National Teaching Fellowship.”

Professor Nicky Callow, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Education and Student Experience, said, “I am absolutely delighted to see Helen’s dedication acknowledged through this prestigious award. She now joins our five previous NTF winners. This achievement reflects our strong culture of valuing our student experience and celebrating excellence at Bangor, while also helping to enhance our national reputation.”

Helen Munro said, “It is a huge honour to receive a National Teaching Fellowship. To be counted alongside previous Bangor University recipients, all of whom have made critical and outstanding contributions to teaching and learning at Bangor, is overwhelming and I’m particularly proud to represent Professional Services and highlight the critical work carried out by these excellent teams.”

Dr Laura Grange, Bangor’s Reward and Recognition Lead for Teaching and Learning and coordinator of the University’s participation in the scheme, said, “I would like to congratulate Helen on this remarkable and well-earned recognition! Helen is a valued member of the Professional Services team, and this national recognition highlights not only Helen’s exceptional contribution to enhancing student outcomes, but also the inclusive spirit of the award – acknowledging that excellence in teaching and student support extends beyond the classroom. Through her dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to student success, Helen exemplifies the vital role Professional Services staff play in shaping a positive and transformative educational environment.”

61 new National Teaching Fellows were awarded in 2025, with all the winners  acknowledged for their outstanding contribution to excellent teaching, transforming student outcomes, and inspiring colleagues in higher education.

View the full list of 2025 winners of the National Teaching Fellowship here.