Harrison College Wins Global Recognition
Specialist college wins global award
Harrison College, a leading specialist post-16 education provider based in Doncaster, has collected the Best Initiative to Promote Inclusivity Award at the GESS Education Awards held at The H Dubai Hotel. The prestigious accolade celebrates Harrison College’s ‘unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment’ for young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
Regarded as one of the most respected accolades in the international education sector, the GESS Awards recognise outstanding contributions to innovation, inclusivity and excellence in education. Harrison College stood out among a highly competitive field of international schools, organisations, and educational providers.
Director of research at the Education Development Trust Dr Richard Churches said: “The judges highlighted the principal’s exceptional achievement in delivering a comprehensive further education programme which has demonstrated outstanding results. “An impressive 90 per cent of graduates have secured employment, apprenticeships or further study, with 70 per cent reporting career advancements or promotions within just 12-18 months.”
CEO and principal of Harrison College Gemma Peebles expressed her pride in the achievement. She said: “Winning this award is an incredible honour for our team and our community. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do, from our tailored curriculum and supported internships to enrichment activities that empower every learner to thrive. “This recognition is not just for Harrison College, but for Doncaster and the UK, showcasing that small, specialist institutions can lead the way globally in inclusive education.”
Harrison College’s innovative approach includes a two-year study programme designed for learners aged 16-25, offering an employer led, skills-based career development programme, alongside, financial and digital literacy and personal development opportunities. The college also partners with local businesses and organisations to provide internships, ensuring students are prepared for life beyond education.
The latest award reinforces Harrison College’s position as a pioneer in inclusive education and highlights its role in shaping a future where diversity is celebrated and every learner has the opportunity to succeed. It comes in the wake of the college being highly commended in the UK Social Mobility Awards. The college received a Highly Commended Gold Award in the School/College of the Year category. The accolade celebrated Harrison College’s outstanding commitment to advancing social mobility and breaking down barriers for young people with ASD and SEMH needs.
The SOMOs, now in their ninth year, honour organisations and institutions that demonstrate innovative and impactful strategies to improve social mobility across the UK. Harrison College was praised for its inclusive curriculum, strong employer partnerships and dedication to creating real opportunities for learners who face some of the most challenging circumstances. The UK Social Mobility Awards are organised by Making The Leap, a charity dedicated to promoting social mobility. The awards ceremony, held in Central London, brought together leading figures from education, business, and the public sector to celebrate organisations driving meaningful change.
