A sport lecturer at Stratford-upon-Avon College has been awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Higher Education Academy.
The fellowship recognises the achievements of professionals and their evident contribution to Higher Education. It is rewarded to those who have demonstrated their commitment to teaching and the student experience.
Enrique Cárdenas, who has been teaching sport at Stratford-upon-Avon College since 2017, started his career after completing a 6-year degree at the University of Sports in Cuba followed by two postgraduate diplomas.
However, the inspiring lecturer’s educational journey had only just begun, he explains: “I arrived in the UK in 2003 seeking new opportunities to continue my educational journey and it was not until five years later that I finally restarted my teaching career in the UK.”
Since coming to England, Enrique has received an impressive seven certificates and diplomas in both teaching and sports as well as completing two Masters of Science; an MSc in Sports, Strength & Conditioning, and an MSc in Applied Sports Science for which he received a distinction from the University of Worcester in October 2020.
Enrique not only teaches on Stratford’s sport courses for 16-18 year olds, but also teaches on the university level sport courses at Stratford’s partner college, Solihull College & University Centre.
He is also an Associate External Examiner for Pearson, where he was asked to join the Public Services unit writing team and subsequently designed assignment briefs for five units. He explains: “Pearson approached me, and it was a compliment that I accepted with honour as a recognition of my input in promoting participation in higher education and equality of opportunity for learners.”
Enrique’s passion for education and dedication towards his students is evident to all those around him. He comments: “Receiving this fellowship has been an honour and it’s difficult for me because I’m a humble person but I also want others to know the extent of what one can accomplish if they continuously put in the hard work and effort needed to achieve their goals.”
