Raul Sanchez-Valiente Calderon

Since completing my MA in Cultural Management at Northumbria University I have been non-stop working in the cultural sector first at Dance City in Newcastle then at the Arts Council England where I have been working since 2009. I took a sabbatical year in 2018 from my role at Arts Council England, and started training in Sports Massage and Clinical Yoga Therapy.

I would say that all the skills learnt at Northumbria University and in my professional career as a Manager, are now transferable and very useful indeed, and allow me to lead my newly launched (February 2020) business venture - SANAR, Massage Therapy & Clinical Yoga practice in Nottingham, UK. 

What are you doing now?

In 2022 I completed all my training  to Level 5 and gained professional experience working in both the clinical and private environments, providing therapy treatments that included; specific sports and physical activities injuries & rehabilitation treatments, therapeutic Yoga for patients with mobility impairments and massage therapy for oncology patients. 

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

At first it was the quality of the course content that drew me in, then I experienced the quality of the teaching.

How connected was your course with industry?

Very much indeed, my placement was at Theatre Royal in Newcastle and was one of the best experiences I ever had.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

It was a game changer and really added value to the course as I was able to put into practice all I learnt at University.

What was the best thing about your course?

The support received by the lecturers and the confidence they made me gain.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

By providing me with the right tools and knowledge to face the real world.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

I would say that all the skills learnt at Northumbria University and in my professional career as a Manager, are now transferable and very useful indeed, and allow me to lead my newly launched (February 202) business venture- SANAR, Massage Therapy & Clinical Yoga practice in Nottingham, UK.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

My peers, my visit to the library and the residential course.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

It's a great place to study and Newcastle is great city too.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Revealing, empowering and life-changing.

For more information:

• www.sanar.co.uk - I’ll be happy to treat any Northumbria alumni and offer a 10% discount on any treatment received, visit my website to find out more.