Northern College’s education courses and specialist support for adult learners have been recognised in this year’s Educate North Awards.

Based at Wentworth Castle, Stainborough, Barnsley, Northern Collegespecialises in adult education and teaches learners from across Yorkshire and further afield.

Now the college has been selected as an Educate North Awards finalist and is shortlisted in the Liverpool Hope Prize; Outstanding Achievement for Social Mobility category.

The awards recognise excellence and good practice at colleges, sixth forms and universities based across the North of England.

Emma Beal, Principal and Chief Executive, Northern College, said: “As a specialist adult-only college, we have a big impact providing life changing opportunities to hundreds of learners many of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Students regularly tell us that studying at Northern College has changed their lives. It is great to see the achievements of our learners and staff recognised with this award shortlisting.”

She added: “Many of our learners overcome significant barriers to develop their skills and confidence. A significant number progress to further or higher education or employment after their studies with us. We are incredibly proud of their successes.”

Northern College provides short community courses and a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications. It is the only adult residential college in the North of England. Students can study residentially or non-residentially.

The short community courses build self-esteem and provide a stepping-stone for learners to gain the confidence to progress to the next level qualification.

Some courses include teaching on evenings and weekends to fit around learners’ other commitments. The college is also growing its online course offer.

The majority of students who study at Northern College are from South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire. During the last academic year 2023/24, 78% of learners were unemployed when they joined the college and 56% had no qualifications above Level 1.

However, 90% of learners progressed to a positive destination in 2023/24 including continuing in education, starting paid employment or becoming self-employed or getting involved in voluntary work.

They include Joanne Mellor who is fulfilling her dream and studying to become a paramedic after being one of the first people in her family to go to university. 

The 38-year-old, from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is completing a BSc Honours Degree in Paramedic Science at York St John University. 

Her ambition is to become a critical care advanced paramedic. The role involves responding to emergencies and managing patients with life threatening injuries or illnesses.

“Going to Northern College has changed my life for the better and helped me to become a better version of myself.

“It’s been character building and boosted my self-belief, confidence and career prospects,” said Joanne, who previously worked in retail and has experience of the care and hospitality sectors.

After deciding to change careers, Joanne completed the Access to Higher Education Health Science Professions in 2024 at Northern College, which she was eligible to study for free.

Access courses prepare adult learners, who do not have traditional academic qualifications such as A Levels, for study at degree level.

Prior to thatJoanne studied several short courses, maths and English and the Pre-Access Diploma in Progression at Level 2 at the college.

She added: “The first time I stepped onto the campus, I knew I was in the right place. I fell in love with the college. There’s a lovely atmosphere, small classes and staff made me feel so at ease.

“The staff are so supportive, they want the best for you and will go above and beyond to help. It’s like being part of a family.

“As I am one of the first people in my family to go to university, I couldn’t envision what that might look like until I got support at Northern College.

“I am loving being at university. If you set your mind to something, it is never too late to follow your dreams.”

The winners of the Educate North Awards will be announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony on 3rd April 2025 at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate.

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