Shortlists announced for IHE Awards 2026

AD Education UK are shortlisted for creating a model for student voice and community that empowers students to influence institutional decision-making. Following the merger of SAE and ICMP, students led the establishment of a UK-wide Students’ Union, creating a sustainable framework for representation, accountability and engagement across a multi-campus institution.

Futureworks are shortlisted for placing students at the heart of a major institutional transition. During the move to a new validating partnership with The Open University, students acted as genuine partners in planning and decision-making, influencing programme design, policies and strategic direction while helping to secure external approval and commendation.

Study Group are shortlisted for creating a culture of genuine student partnership, putting the student voice at the heart of decision making. Students co-designed the Student Assistance Programme, influenced the development of the organisation's AI policy, and helped shape its Academic Strategy through representation at every level of governance, ensuring student perspectives drive both immediate improvements and long-term direction.

ACM are shortlisted for pioneering an industry-led model of specialist audio education through the Metropolis Institute of Sound Technology (MIST). Combining immersive learning within Metropolis Studios with bespoke online delivery, MIST gives learners direct access to professional workflows, technologies and practitioners, bridging the gap between education and industry in emerging areas such as mastering and immersive audio.

ICMP is shortlisted for the MA Vocal Studies, a programme that reimagines contemporary vocal education by placing each student’s unique voice at the centre of learning. Combining vocal science, psychology and creative practice, students develop original, evidence-informed approaches that are shaping vocal pedagogy internationally while promoting inclusive, sustainable and culturally authentic professional practice.

The University of Buckingham is shortlisted for the BA (Hons) Primary Education, developed in partnership with Anspear to create an accessible route into teaching for working teaching assistants. Combining flexible digital learning, workplace-integrated pedagogy and targeted learner support, the programme enables students to remain in employment while gaining degree-level qualifications.

ACM are shortlisted for using established digital technologies to transform the underlying architecture of a degree and enhance the student learning experience. Through flexible, technology-enabled pathways, students develop specialist digital capabilities within authentic creative contexts. Underpinned by continuous evaluation and improvement, ACM's evidence-led approach prioritises meaningful educational innovation and industry relevance over technological novelty.

ESCP Business School is shortlisted for their pioneering integration of artificial intelligence across the student learning experience. Through institution-wide deployment of ChatGPT Edu, bespoke AI learning tools and accredited AI training, students develop critical AI capabilities, while ongoing exploration of emerging technologies such as VR ensures learning remains innovative, practical and future-focused.

The National Design Academy is shortlisted for AI for Interior Design (AI 4 ID), an innovative online course that equips students to integrate artificial intelligence into professional design practice. Through practical demonstrations, guided experimentation and project-based learning, students develop the critical judgement, digital adaptability and technical skills needed to use AI responsibly and creatively within evolving design workflows.

The Academy of Live Technology is shortlisted for placing the classroom at the heart of industry through its location within Production Park. Students encounter employers as part of everyday campus life, learning alongside and collaborating with production teams and technology specialists. This provides access to professional experience, networks and career opportunities that would be difficult to replicate in a conventional higher education setting.

ACM are shortlisted for their Women in Studio Engineering Higher Apprenticeship, developed in partnership with Metropolis Studios and a major industry label. Designed to address the severe under-representation of women in studio engineering, the programme creates a structured route into the profession and is helping to build a more diverse pipeline of future industry talent.

Escape Studios are shortlisted for embedding industry expertise into curriculum design through their Industry Advisory Board and Degree Concept Team model. Leaders from world-renowned studios help shape strategy and identify emerging skills needs, while partners including Atomhawk co-design programmes from the ground up. Students benefit from a year-round programme of industry engagement opportunities, developing professional networks and engaging directly with creative employers.

ICMP is shortlisted for a longstanding partnership with Belmont University that connects songwriting students in London and Nashville through collaborative learning, industry engagement and cultural exchange. Through reciprocal visits, co-writing opportunities and participation in Nashville’s Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, students build global networks, industry experience and lasting professional relationships. The initiative has recently expanded to Sweden.

Le Cordon Bleu London are shortlisted for their partnership with the Korean Cultural Centre UK and the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism, which brings Korean Temple Food into plant-based culinary education. Through immersive teaching, public engagement and international cultural exchange, the initiative strengthens the link between plant-based cuisine and culturally significant practices while equipping students with sustainable culinary skills and specialist global knowledge.

Richmond American University London is shortlisted for their partnership with China Education Group, which expands access to high-quality transnational education while fostering intercultural exchange and academic collaboration. Supporting almost 1,700 students across three Chinese universities, the partnership combines strong student outcomes with staff development, knowledge exchange and sustained institutional collaboration.

ESCP Business School is shortlisted for placing international experience at the heart of the student journey. Through compulsory multi-country study, multilingual learning, multinational teams and industry-led projects, students develop the intercultural, professional and practical skills needed for global careers, supported by extensive employer partnerships and a worldwide alumni network.

Global Institute of Sport is shortlisted for embedding global employability throughout its programmes. Through an international campus network, industry-led learning and overseas internships, students develop the skills, experience and professional networks needed for careers in sport. Global industry advisory boards help ensure programmes remain aligned with workforce needs across international markets.

SP Jain London School of Management is shortlisted for developing a connected global employability model in which career readiness is an assessed academic outcome rather than an optional support service. Through its Professional Readiness Programme, international study opportunities, careers coaching, global employer network and supervised internships, students develop the skills, experience and cultural agility needed for multinational careers.

The College of Legal Practice is shortlisted for its evidence-informed approach to student success, centred on the innovative SQE Readiness Review. By combining learning analytics, assessment performance and academic judgement, the College evaluates exam readiness, proactively identifies risk and concerns, and delivers targeted interventions that support trainee progression through qualification and into professional legal practice.

3SC are shortlisted for their specialist Neurodiversity Coaching Programme, which provides tailored support for apprenticeship learners with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, dyspraxia and other neurodiverse needs. Delivered in partnership with apprenticeship provider eTraining, the programme helps apprentices develop personalised strategies, confidence and independence, while removing barriers to learning and achievement across diverse apprenticeship cohorts.

The University of the Built Environment is shortlisted for its Integrated Retention Intervention Programme (IRIP), an institution-wide initiative that uses data and live dashboards to identify students at risk of disengagement. Bringing together academic and professional services teams, IRIP delivers personalised interventions and proactive support, helping students at all levels of study overcome barriers, re-engage with learning, and stay on track to reach their potential.

ESCP Business School is shortlisted for embedding sustainability across campus operations, teaching and student engagement. Committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 55% by 2030, ESCP's London campus is delivering the Camden Climate Pledge through initiatives spanning energy efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable travel and biodiversity. Through compulsory sustainability education and an annual Social Impact & Sustainability Festival, students tackle real-world environmental and social challenges in the local community.

The Institute for Equity, University Centre is shortlisted for driving systemic change in equity, diversity and inclusion across education and public services. Through its Inclusive Curriculum Framework Inventory (ICFI©), sector-leading research, training and institutional support, the Institute has helped organisations create fairer and more inclusive learning environments, strengthen governance structures, improve workplace cultures, and enhance outcomes for learners and communities.

Ruskin Mill Centre for Practice is shortlisted for embedding sustainability across teaching, land stewardship and institutional culture. Through its partnership with Ruskin Mill Land Trust, students learn in biodynamic farms, woodlands and land-based settings where sustainability is experienced in practice. Social responsibility is expressed through inclusion, transformative learning and education for public benefit, connecting environmental stewardship with community wellbeing.

Hannah is shortlisted for her contribution to the IHE community as co-chair of the Finance Network. Through her expertise and leadership, she has helped create a trusted space where members can share challenges, exchange practical advice and learn from one another. Her balanced and pragmatic insight has strengthened IHE’s policy and advocacy work, helping reflect members' operational realities while supporting effective engagement with regulators and policymakers. Hannah's encouragement of others, willingness to share expertise and commitment to building connections across the sector has helped foster a more collaborative, confident and supportive membership community.

Mike is shortlisted for his active engagement in IHE networks, forums, roundtables and sector projects. As a member of the advisory group for IHE’s Industry and Skills project, he helped to shape the report's findings and recommendations, ensuring independent providers were represented as a credible voice in national discussions on skills and industry partnership. Through his expertise in apprenticeships and employer engagement, he has informed policy development, supported the practical delivery of IHE's work, strengthened the sector's evidence base and generously shared insights at the Apprenticeships Forum. Despite being a relatively new member of the IHE community, Mike has quickly become a valued contributor while helping others feel more connected to IHE and to each other.