Today we are pleased to launch the second year of the Natspec Awards.
The Natspec Awards aim to recognise and celebrate excellent practice in the specialist further education sector. Open to full Natspec members who are specialist colleges, they are an excellent way to promote continuous improvement and raise standards in our sector. We are on the look-out for innovative practice which encourages high aspirations and enables young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities to achieve their goals.
For 2021, we have added two new categories. The first, Curriculum innovation, is a permanent addition recognising new content and approaches to delivery across the curriculum. The second, Home learning, aims to recognise colleges’ efforts to provide learning at home during the Coronavirus pandemic.
The judges panel is once again led by Nigel Evans, former HMI, and a great friend to the sector.
We look forward to hearing from our member colleges about all the exciting and innovative projects happening within the colleges.
Categories
The eight award categories are:
- Innovative use of technology
- Pathways into employment
- Student voice
- Wellbeing and mental health
- Inter-disciplinary working
- Partnership working
- Curriculum innovation
- Home learning
How to enter
Applications must be made via the online form on the Natspec Awards website. Your application should be no more than 750 words and you may also upload up to three pieces of supporting evidence.
You will need to explain:
- what has been implemented
- why it is innovative
- what the impact has been
- how it will be sustained / developed.
In the evidence submitted we would always expect to hear from students, as well as from a range of stakeholders; stakeholders may differ from one category to another.
Applicants may also wish to consult our Frequently Asked Questions before compiling their submission. We have also compiled some advice for applicants, reflecting on the entries we received for the 2020 awards.
Why enter?
The Natspec Awards is a great chance to reflect on successful approaches and the positive impact they have on students. It is also an excellent opportunity to share innovative and effective practice. Last year’s six winners have been invited to present a webinar each, highlighting the practice that won them an award. Details of these webinars are available on our events calendar.
Awards winners also receive a £250 CPD bursary, use of the Natspec Award winners’ logo on any and all materials, and a certificate and trophy. Last year’s trophies were made by students at Ruskin Mill’s Freeman College and they looked amazing. We’re on the lookout for a college to make this year’s awards trophies, so please get in touch at awards@natspec.org for more details if you’re interested.
Important dates
Applications open
28 September 2020
Closing date for applications
10 February 2021 – at 1pm
Shortlist announced
by 24 March 2021
Winners announced
To be confirmed
Find out more
Full details about the awards are available on the awards website, and submissions are open now. Good luck!