Bradford College has been named a finalist in two prestigious categories at the Beacon Awards 2024/2025, an event recognising innovation and excellence in further education. Organised by the Association of Colleges (AoC), the awards celebrate best practices across the UK.
The college is shortlisted for The Edge Award for Excellence in Real World Learning for its Ambition HUB programme, which integrates real-world experiences into vocational education. The initiative offers Level 3 students opportunities to work on employer-led projects that enhance their qualifications and life skills. Projects have seen diverse collaborations, such as hairdressing students working with Yorkshire Building Society and construction students partnering with the Royal Shakespeare Company on Shakespeare performances.
Vice Principal Sarah Towan praised the programme’s impact, saying:
“Our Ambition HUB provides an extraordinary layer of learning, giving students career advantages and unique experiences that are truly transformative.”
The second accolade, The Bell Foundation Award for Excellence in ESOL, recognises the college’s innovative approach to English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) education. In partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company, Bradford College uses Shakespeare’s works to teach language skills. Last year, 235 learners participated in this creative method, which fosters community integration and instils confidence.
The initiative combines literary study with performance, enabling students to develop English proficiency while exploring English heritage and culture. This approach has also shown benefits in mental health and personal empowerment, particularly for learners recovering from trauma.
Towan expressed pride in the dual recognition:
“It’s incredible that not one but two initiatives have been acknowledged. These nominations reflect our collective ambition to serve our community and highlight the outstanding innovation of our staff and students.”
The Beacon Awards winners will be announced in early 2025. Successful colleges will be visited between December 2024 – January 2025 before winners are announced at a special AoC celebration event on 3rd March 2025. Case studies from all colleges that achieved commended status are available on the AoC website here.
