The Sheffield College achieves third place in top 100 inclusive employers ranking

19th December 2025

The Sheffield College has achieved third place in the latest ranking of 100 inclusive employers nationally and is the top further education provider.

The National Centre for Diversity’s Top 100 Most Inclusive UK Employers Index 2025 celebrates organisations that make outstanding efforts to create inclusive cultures.

The index includes business, charitable, corporate and public sector institutions. Among the colleges listed, The Sheffield College ranks the highest in the 100.

The achievement recognises organisations’ exceptional commitment to the values of fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion and engagement. 

Angela Foulkes CBE, Chief Executive and Principal, The Sheffield College, said:

“This is fantastic recognition of our longstanding commitment to creating a welcoming, safe and inclusive college where everyone belongs.

“We embrace the wealth of talent and experience that diversity brings. Everything from our recruitment processes to our values and behaviours is aimed at removing barriers and creating a culture where staff are treated fairly and respectfully.”

Solat Chaudhry, Chief Executive, The National Centre for Diversity, said: “I send my warmest congratulations to The Sheffield College on successfully reaching number three in the Top 100 Most Inclusive UK Employers Index 2025.? 
 
“The inspiring organisations that make the Top 100 demonstrate excellent levels of employee retention and recruitment and clearly demonstrate how they value and respect the people that work for them.  
  
“What better than to be recognised by peers and those travelling in the same direction towards the common goal of fairness in the workplace. It is hugely motivational.” 

In addition to the employer index ranking, James Smythe, Vice Principal of Student Experience, The Sheffield College, has received a Certificate of Achievement for his outstanding performance, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

James added:

“It’s an honour to receive this award. We will continue to work to improve diversity and inclusion across our organisation and support others to do the same.”

The awards were announced at a National Centre for Diversity ceremony in Bradford on 27th November.  

The Sheffield College’s Equality Scheme 2025 to 2030 includes a series of objectives based on the four key themes of learning, people, sustainability and partnerships.

The college’s commitments include striving to ensure that staff reflect the rich diversity of the city, equipping staff with the skills, resources and equity, diversity and inclusion knowledge to thrive, and fostering a sense of belonging within an inclusive environment.

For more information, visit www.sheffcol.ac.uk.

Pictured: Angela Foulkes CBE, Chief Executive and Principal, The Sheffield College