Edge Hill University Earns Dual Nominations for Educate North Awards 2026
Edge Hill University has achieved a significant milestone by being shortlisted in two categories at the prestigious Educate North Awards 2026. This recognition highlights the institution's commitment to excellence in education and law, with nominations that underscore its impactful partnerships and student-focused initiatives.
Faculty of Education Recognized for Mental Health and Wellbeing Excellence
The Faculty of Education, in collaboration with Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and Liverpool Medical Needs Education (MNE), has been shortlisted in the mental health and wellbeing category. This nomination celebrates their innovative work in training future teachers to address mental health challenges among children and young people.
As one of the largest teacher education providers in the UK, Edge Hill is dedicated to ensuring trainee teachers can identify early signs of poor mental health and promote positive mental health. Dr Helen O’Keeffe, Dean of the Faculty of Education, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "The mental health of our children and young people is one of the most pressing priorities for our partners and their staff at the moment."
In partnership with Alder Hey and MNE, the university has co-designed the first PGCE Primary Education Mental Health and Wellbeing Specialist with Qualified Teacher Status course in the country. Additionally, interdisciplinary workshops for secondary school trainees have been developed to improve educational and mental health outcomes.
Wendy Henshaw, MNE Head of School, commented, "This partnership has created the perfect opportunity for the voices of young people to be heard and shared with future teachers to equip them with the awareness and understanding required to support students in schools who are struggling with their mental health."
Dr Katherine Birch, Director of the Alder Hey Academy, added, "Here at Alder Hey, we are passionate about improving children and young people’s futures. Given the number of children who are struggling with their mental health, it’s vital that all those working in schools are supported to better understand a range of mental health challenges."
School of Law and Criminal Justice Contends for Law School of the Year
The School of Law and Criminal Justice is in the running for Law School of the Year, a testament to its outstanding student experience. This nomination is supported by the school's top ranking in the North West in the 2025 National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey.
Professor George Talbot, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Knowledge Exchange), expressed pride in the nominations, saying, "We are proud to again be finalists in the Educate North Awards. The nominations demonstrate our commitment to excellence in education, making a real difference to the life chances of our students and building strong partnerships for the benefit of the wider community."
The School of Law and Criminal Justice has revolutionized the student experience through a comprehensive programme of activities, including:
- A resilience programme to support student well-being.
- Professional mentoring to guide career development.
- Employer-led skills workshops to enhance practical knowledge.
These initiatives focus on raising aspirations, creating supportive external networks with employers and alumni, and delivering enhanced student prospects. Professor Jay Cullen explained, "Our objectives have been to create a School where our staff, students and stakeholders thrive, and where everyone benefits from an outstanding experience. We prioritise the development of students’ skills and character, while significantly expanding our employer networks to offer transformative opportunities."
In a display of inclusivity and social responsibility, the school has also supported and collaborated with scholars and students from Ukraine following the outbreak of war. This effort reflects the institution's dedication to fostering a global and compassionate learning environment.
The Educate North Awards 2026 nominations position Edge Hill University as a leader in educational innovation, with both the Faculty of Education and the School of Law and Criminal Justice setting benchmarks for excellence in their respective fields.
