New College Durham (NCD) is delighted to announce that it has made it through as a finalist for the prestigious Association of Colleges’ (AoC) Beacon Awards, for College Engagement with Employers. Already confirmed as meeting the rigorous standards and receiving Commended status, NCD was announced as a finalist at the AoC Annual Conference on 14th November 2023.
The AoC Beacon Awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK colleges each year. The City & Guilds Award for College Engagement with Employers is one of the most sought-after categories, highlighting the critical role that colleges play in fostering strong partnerships between educational institutions and employers.
Being announced as finalist for this award recognises the college’s exceptional commitment to fostering strong partnerships, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and creating a curriculum that aligns with the evolving skill needs of the region.
Andy Broadbent, Principal and Chief Executive at New College Durham, commented: “We are immensely proud to be a finalist in the AoC Beacon Awards. Our work with employers is a priority and a huge part of our commitment to addressing the skills gaps faced by our region and contributing significantly to filling the skill requirements of the North East. As a college, NCD believes working with other organisations, rather than independently, will yield greater results; and we are delighted that our innovative approach has been shortlisted.”
Mark White CBE DL, Chair of AoC’s Charitable Trust, said: “The AoC Beacon Awards showcase exactly why colleges are so important to every community and why people value them. This award recognises the critical role undertaken by boards, governors and governance professionals developing capacity for sustained improvement in the quality of provision for students.”
The AoC Beacon Award Winners will be announced in Spring 2024.