Bradford College has been recognised on the national stage, winning The Bell Foundation Award for Excellence in ESOL at the 2025 Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards. The college stood out as the only institution from Yorkshire and the Northeast to receive an award this year, cementing its reputation as a leader in innovative education.
The annual Beacon Awards celebrate excellence in further education, showcasing initiatives that have a profound impact on students and their wider communities. Bradford College’s award-winning ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) programme, developed in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company, has been praised for its creative approach to language learning.
Through engagement with Shakespeare’s works, ESOL students not only develop their English skills but also gain insights into British heritage and culture. The initiative, which supported 235 learners last year, has been credited with boosting confidence, improving mental well-being, and helping students integrate into their new communities.
The college was also a finalist in The Edge Award for Excellence in Real World Learning for its Ambition HUB enhancement programme. This initiative provides an additional layer of learning alongside Level 3 vocational courses, offering students real-world experiences to complement their qualifications. By collaborating with businesses such as Yorkshire Building Society, students gain practical industry knowledge and valuable career skills that give them a competitive edge in the job market.
Sarah Towan, Vice Principal for Recruitment & Communications at Bradford College, expressed pride in the recognition:
“We are delighted that the hard work and innovation of our staff and students have been acknowledged at such a high level. The Beacon Awards highlight the very best in further education across the UK, and for Bradford College to win in such a competitive field is an incredible achievement. Being named a finalist in a second category further demonstrates our ambition to provide outstanding education for our community. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
The winners were announced during Colleges Week at a ceremony in Westminster on 3rd March. The event is an annual celebration of the vital role colleges play in education and economic growth, with this year’s theme focusing on opportunity and skills development.
David Hughes, Chief Executive of the AoC, highlighted the significance of this year’s awards, stating:
“These awards showcase the incredible impact colleges have on students, communities, and the economy. The standard of entries this year has been exceptional, reflecting the crucial role colleges play as anchors of local growth and opportunity.”
Minister for Skills Jacqui Smith also praised the winners, adding:
“Colleges are at the heart of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity and create the skills needed to grow the economy. From mental health support to sustainability, the winning institutions have shown outstanding commitment to helping young people thrive.”
Bradford College’s success at the Beacon Awards displays its commitment to pushing the boundaries of education, providing students with the tools, experiences, and confidence to succeed.
