Oldham College wins Beacon Award for work supporting students

Oldham College is celebrating after winning a prestigious Beacon Award for supporting its students at a ceremony in London yesterday (February 27).

The Support for Students award puts an emphasis on practical teaching, equipping students with the skills that they will need for future employment.

The winning entry shows how the college has brought safeguarding into daily teaching, including a new programme delivered by specialist staff that has already benefited around 2,500 students.

Alun Francis, Oldham College principal, said: “We are incredibly proud to have won this prized Beacon Award.

“It’s a hugely significant achievement for us to gain national recognition for the innovative approach that has been implemented here.

“We’re determined to develop and encourage the social, practical and emotional knowledge that will help them to look after themselves, and others, and to make really positive contributions to the wider community as adults.”

One of the projects included in the college’s submission was Safer Streets initiative where the college worked with Greater Manchester Police and Transport for Greater Manchester.

The Oldham campaign challenged street harassment of women and girls across the public transport network. This ranged from designing artwork, to writing and performing a new play, and hosting a major festival on campus.

Mark White, Interim chair of Association of College’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 examples of excellent practical teaching and learning. The work of the winning college shows how important colleges are in providing students with the necessary skills for the real world.”