Beacon Awards 2023-2024 - Winners
The Careers and Enterprise Company Award for Excellence in Careers and Enterprise
Middlesbrough College
Providing students with real-life insight into the world of work is at the heart of Middlesbrough College, and regular employer engagement is effective, up-to-date and impactful for students. Through the advisory boards, employers shape the curriculum, identify any gaps, and ensure all learners have the knowledge and cultural capital they need to succeed in life.
The Inenco Award for Education for Sustainable Development
Suffolk New College
Suffolk New College delivered a college-wide green skills programme with sustainability embedded in enrichment projects, capital investments and curriculum development to transform teaching practice and project-led innovation. Both learners and staff have a sustainability mindset, and there is a strong culture of project-based entrepreneurial ambition and a willingness to suggest and try new approaches and initiatives.
The RCU Award for Support for Students
Bridgwater and Taunton College
Bridgwater and Taunton College has developed innovative study programmes to offer individuals with additional needs or learning difficulties entry to the workplace, including at nuclear power plant construction site Hinkley Point C and the Avon and Somerset Police. With small and business offering schemes, the programmes are fostering inclusivity, dispelling preconceptions, and contributing to a more diverse Somerset workforce.
The City & Guilds Award for College Engagement with Employers
New College Durham
As the north east region faces high unemployment rates, New College Durham is forging partnerships with national and regional businesses, educational institutions and regional bodies to benefit students, employers, and the economy. Their strategic plan, focused on stakeholder engagement and collaboration, is creating a curriculum that meets skill needs and maximizes opportunities.
The NOCN Group Award for Mental Health and Wellbeing
Barnsley College
With waiting times for assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions significantly impacting the Barnsley College students, staff introduced a bespoke solution to tackle a mental health crisis, WRAP. Developed with MIND, the programme focuses on adapting a non-clinical but proven programme to support individuals from low-level and short-term wellbeing through to significant mental health disorders.
The Jisc Award for Effective Use of Digital Technology in Further Education
Hull College
Hull College is leading the way on support for refuges and asylum seekers. The implementation of Microsoft Translate has removed language barriers and empowered more than 1000 ESOL students to successfully engage in education and access key services. This technology is used across college and helps students integrate into college life, enhancing their sense of belonging.
The Edge Award for Excellence in Real World Learning
Education Partnership North East
Education Partnership North East’s Cultural and Social Capital project drives excellence in the curriculum in partnership with employers. The spotlight has been on problem solving in the real world, preparation for industry inclusion, industry expert masterclasses and an array of live briefs and commissions. Students work has been showcased through performance, exhibitions, and a digital expo.
The AoC Award for Widening Participation
Gower College Swansea
To demonstrate their commitment creating a supportive and accessible apprenticeships for all, Gower College had a comprehensive overhaul of their approach to identify and support apprentices with disabilities and additional learning needs. Efforts to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities and offer tailored support to individuals with disabilities have paid off with increased participation and success of apprentices with disabilities.
The AoC Award for Excellence in Governance
JOINT WINNERS
East Kent Colleges Group (EKC Group)
East Kent Colleges Group leads on developing the economic and social prosperity of the diverse communities they serve. Their deep-rooted community leadership model devolves accountability and responsibility for local education to local college board level, which in turn, supports those with SEND, those in care, unemployed adults and offenders as well as 16 to 18-year-olds with low prior attainment.
Barnsley College
At Barnsley College, governors are dynamic actors in the work and life of the college. In ‘Deep Dive’ groups, they drill data and evidence to suggest solutions, and also take part in informal creative sessions focussing on strategy. With increased visibility and transparency has come better accountability and greater trust between the board and college leaders.
