The Blackpool Sixth Form College has been Highly Commended for an Association of Colleges Beacon Award. The Awards, which this year celebrate 16 years of rewarding outstanding teaching and learning in further education Colleges, were announced at a ceremony hosted by comedienne and author Shappi Khorsandi at the AoC’s Annual Conference in Birmingham on November 17.
Blackpool Sixth Form College was Highly Commended for the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) Award for the Leadership of Innovation in Curriculum Development. The Award recognises the role of leadership in curriculum development activities.
The College has been Highly Commended for offering a flexible curriculum mix to widen participation, particularly among young people who are the first in their family to plan to go to university.
The project, called ‘Applied Pathways’ allows a mix of BTEC, AS-level and A-level courses in subjects as varied as Travel and Tourism, Forensic Science and Music Technology. It aims to raise learner aspirations and standards and has led to better recruitment, retention and progression of students.The UK-wide Beacon Awards provide national recognition for excellence and innovation as well as acknowledging the talents of staff at all levels. They highlight the breadth and quality of education in the College sector.
Chair of the AoC Beacon Awards, Dame Patricia Morgan-Webb said: “Beacon winners blaze a trail in finding new ways of doing things; they contribute to social justice and are instrumental in local economic and social re-generation, essential during these turbulent times. Whilst the winners this year are located all across the UK, what they all share are the key traits of innovation, creativity, responsiveness and a collaborative approach. I am delighted on behalf of the AoC Charitable Trust to reward the contribution that these Colleges make; they are the pillars of our communities.
Eddie Brittain, AoC Beacon Awards Lead Assessor said: “Having seen the Awards programme expand in the past 16 years, I am heartened, not only by the number of nominations and the engagement of the sector, but also by the degree of excellence that my fellow assessors and I witnessed when we spent time in these centres of learning. By presenting these Awards, the AoC showcases best practice, innovative development and continuous improvement, creating beacons that other Colleges can look to for help, inspiration and encouragement.
Blackpool Sixth Form College will receive a certificate in the New Year testifying to their achievements.
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