Lakes College has been commended for its best practice and innovation.

The college is one of eight to have been praised in the category for college engagement with employers in the Association of Colleges’ Beacon Awards.

The awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK colleges. They are awarded every year by AoC to provide recognition for excellence and innovation, acknowledging the talents of staff at all levels. They highlight the breadth and quality of education in the college sector.

Lakes College principal Chris Nattress said: “I’m delighted that our excellent work with employers has met the demanding criteria for Commended Status within the AoC Beacon Awards.

“The Beacon Awards are of 25 years long standing and are a badge of genuine excellence. Our Commended status is testimony to the excellent work the college does in partnership with our many hundreds of employers of many different types and sizes in our region. Brilliant work.”

AoC’s membership includes more than 200 colleges in England, including general further education, sixth form, tertiary and land-based colleges. It supports, represents and protects the interests of its member colleges, as well as the rest of the FE sector.