AoC Beacon Awards 'Celebrating Colleges'
Colleagues may be aware that last summer the AoC Charitable Trust commissioned research based on the winning and highly commended colleges of the AoC Beacon Awards since 1994. The outcomes of this research will be published shortly and the resulting document, 'Celebrating Colleges' will have its political launch at a reception at the House of Commons on 9 July 2008. The launch will be hosted by the Rt Hon David Blunkett MP and the Rt Hon John Denham, Secretary of State for Innovation Universities and Skills, will also be on the platform.
The research consultant, Pat Hood, read through almost 900 original applications, supporting testimonials from learners, employers and other partners, assessor reports and summary profiles. She also interviewed principals and sector leaders as well as participating in seminars and workshops with colleges and sponsors.
The research found that winning, innovative colleges share six capabilities which fit them to lead a self-improving, creative sector, instrumental in forging its own future during a period of transformational change. These capabilities have been explored and case studies of examples from recent years highlighted in the findings.
'Celebrating Colleges' is an important and exciting document which not only celebrates the successful way in which colleges have continually met the individual, local, regional or national needs of their learners, but it also demonstrates how the sector is equipped to deal with future challenges.
Copies of 'Celebrating Colleges' will be distributed to all colleges following the launch and will be available on the AoC web site.
For further information, please contact Alice Thiagaraj, Manager of the AoC Charitable Trust, on 020 7034 9900 or email Alice Thiagaraj.
AoC Beacon Awards 2008-2009
All colleges should have received the AoC Beacon Awards 2008-09 Prospectus. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 23 July 2008, so there is just under a month to get together your application and supporting evidence. If you or your colleagues require any further hard copies of the prospectus or if you would like feedback on a previous submission, then please contact Alice Thiagaraj, Manager of the AoC Charitable Trust, on 020 7034 9900 or email Alice Thiagaraj.