The Sheffield College is a finalist in two AoC Beacon Awards 2021/22

13th December 2021

The Sheffield College has been shortlisted in two national education awards.

The Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards celebrate best practice and innovation among UK further education colleges.

This year’s awards comprise 11 categories and recognise the positive impact of colleges on their students and the communities that they serve.

The Sheffield College is a finalist in the National Centre for Diversity Award for Inclusive Learning Leadership and the RCU Award for Support for Students.

The National Centre for Diversity Award for Inclusive Learning Leadership shortlisting is based on the College’s extensive work embedding the FREDIE values of fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion and engagement in all aspects of its activities.

The RCU Award for Support for Students shortlisting is for the College’s work supporting asylum seekers and refugees back into learning and helping them progress to the next level course and employment, primarily through the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses.

James Smythe, Vice Principal of Student Experience, and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, The Sheffield College, said: “It’s brilliant to be recognised in two awards categories.”

He added: “This achievement is a real testament to the commitment and hard work of our staff and the inspirational impact that they have on our student and wider community, transforming lives through learning.”

The AoC Beacon Awards winners will be announced in early 2022. For more information about our next open days, please visit our website.

Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin #AoCBeacons #LoveOurColleges.

You might also be interested in

Why Small Businesses Have a Bigger Role Than Ever in Shaping Sheffield's Future Workforce

Fri 11th September 2026

Young people want practical careers guidance and workplace experience. Sheffield's SMEs can bridge the gap by supporting placements, visits and mentoring, helping students become work-ready while securing future talent for local businesses.

Mason Thomas Law supports first-time business owners behind Cross Padel

Thu 10th September 2026

Leading Sheffield commercial property law specialist Mason Thomas Law has supported the owners of a new £500,000 indoor padel centre in Clay Cross, Derbyshire, with the commercial lease arrangements for their first business venture.

Chancellor’s Focus On Growth Welcome

Tue 8th September 2026

Responding to the Chancellor’s speech on growth, Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

Bruce & Butler Rebrands as Hawsons Data Protection & Cyber Security

Mon 7th September 2026

Data Protection & Cyber Security firm, Bruce & Butler, has announced that it will adopt the branding of Hawsons as part of a strategic decision to align the two firms under a single, established identity.