Teaching Excellence Awards

Posted on Friday 8 August 2025

Ruth Penfold-Mounce has become the latest York academic to be awarded a National Teaching Fellowship from Advance HE, an organisation with a mission to enhance and recognise excellence in higher education learning and teaching both in the UK and internationally.

Professor Penfold-Mounce, a Teaching and Scholarship Professor in the Department of Sociology, combines her interests in the areas of Death Studies, Celebrity Culture, and Cultural Criminology, with pioneering pedagogical approaches to transform student learning and how Sociology can be taught. Working collaboratively with partners inside and beyond the University, and employing technology in creative and inspiring ways, she has developed award-winning podcasts which take students out of the classroom to experience learning in a sensory-rich and mobile way.

Ruth has also inspired colleagues both within York and beyond to innovate and think differently about how students can be engaged in exciting and inclusive ways.

Reflecting upon her award, Ruth says: 'I am genuinely thrilled to receive recognition of my leadership and creativity in teaching and learning by being awarded a National Teaching Fellowship. As the first Teaching and Scholarship Professor in the Sociology Department I have sought to drive forwards a strategic vision and collaborative approach to curriculum design and develop a vibrant teaching portfolio. 

In the future, I will continue championing the value of the Teaching and Scholarship career track and inspiring others to embrace innovative pedagogy to enhance not only student learning but the student voice.’

Ruth’s achievement follows repeated York success in the National Teaching Fellowship Scheme over the last 20 years, a testament to our staff’s commitment and creativity in providing empowering educational experiences. 

Further information

The National Teaching Fellowship (NTF) Scheme is organised by Advance HE. Each year, it celebrates and recognises around 50 individuals from across the UK who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in higher education.