NEON Awards
The NEON Awards celebrate excellence in widening access, participation and social mobility across the UK. Each year, the Awards recognise individuals, institutions and partnerships whose work makes a meaningful and lasting difference for underrepresented learners.
Showcasing the best in widening access to HE
Now a key annual event within the access and participation calendar, the awards shine a spotlight on the innovative projects, dedicated practitioners, and sector‑leading initiatives that are helping to transform opportunities for learners across the UK.
Each year, the awards recognise excellence across a range of categories, showcasing the work that is making a real difference to learner progression, retention, and success. From early outreach to student support, from collaborative partnerships to institutional strategy, the NEON Awards highlight the commitment and creativity of the widening access community.
Why the awards matter
The widening access sector is driven by passion, dedication, and a belief in the power of education to change lives. The NEON Awards provide an opportunity to:
- Celebrate impactful and evidence‑informed practice
- Recognise contributions that have improved outcomes for underrepresented learners
- Share models of success and inspire new approaches across the sector
- Highlight the people and teams whose work often goes unseen but has significant impact
- Strengthen a collective commitment to fair access and participation
Awards archive
Get involved
NEON is the professional organisation supporting those involved in widening access to higher education at all levels and in all sectors to affect change in their own organisations and communities.