Recognising excellent work
This event brought together shortlisted nominees to recognise outstanding achievement and sector‑leading practice in widening access.
With over 80 nominations received across the award categories, competition was strong and the judging panel undertook extensive deliberations. NEON was delighted to be hosted by Dr Adam Thompson MP, Chair of the AllParty Parliamentary University Group.
2025 NEON Awards winners & commendations
NEON Contribution to Widening Access Award
Krisha Bainham (University of Derby) – WINNER
Dr Melanie Bottrill (Imperial College London) – Commendation
Joni Chase (University of Kent) – Commendation
NEON Higher Education Institution of the Year Award
Northumbria University – WINNER
The University of Sheffield – Commendation
University of Kent – Commendation
NEON School or College Widening Access Award
Newham Sixth Form College – WINNER
Foxford School and Community Arts College – Commendation
St Thomas More Catholic Academy – Commendation
NEON Student of the Year Award
Fabian Murray (University of Law) – WINNER
Nadin Hawwash (The University of Manchester) – WINNER
Olayemi Abe (Imperial College London) – WINNER
NEON Widening Access Initiative (Outreach) Award
Curriculum Enhancement Through University Partnership (University of East London) – WINNER
JumpStart (University of Leeds) – Commendation
Future Vet (Harper Adams University, Keele University, Harper and Keele Veterinary School, Higher Horizons) – Commendation
NEON Widening Access Initiative (Retention and Progression) Award
Lancaster Success Programme (Lancaster University) – WINNER
Contact and Engagement Support (Nottingham Trent University) – Commendation
The Plus Programme (University of Leeds) – Commendation
NEON Widening Access Partnership Award
Rise High (University of Derby and Chatsworth House Trust’s Learning and Engagement Team) – WINNER
The University of Sunderland and The Aldrin Family Foundation – Commendation
Mature Access Pathway (University of Exeter, Exeter College, Yeovil College, Truro and Penwith College) – Commendation
The University of Sheffield and The Skills Builder Partnership – Commendation
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.