Recognising excellent work
The Awards are always an important opportunity to recognise the outstanding work taking place across the country by NEON members, as well as the dedication and impact of individuals, both staff and students.
We were delighted that Gareth Snell MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central was able to host the event and present certificates. With more than 110 submissions received, judges carefully considered entries across all categories, and we extend our thanks to all members who took the time to submit nominations.
2026 NEON Awards winners & commendations
NEON Contribution to Widening Access Award
Chris Derbyshire – Winner
Professor Nic Beech – Commendation
Natasha Mycawka – Commendation
NEON Higher Education Institution of the Year Award
Brunel University of London – Winner
University of Hertfordshire – Commendation
University of Wolverhampton – Commendation
NEON Student of the Year Award
Alice Lawrence – Winner
Chenal Singh – Commendation
Angelina Singh – Commendation
NEON Widening Access Initiative (Outreach) Award
Aspire2Uni, University of Wolverhampton – Winner
Amplify Your Summer, Anglia Ruskin University – Commendation
Success for Black Students, Kings College London – Commendation
NEON Widening Access Initiative (Retention and Progression) Award
Inclusive Reading Lists, University of West London – Winner
Discover, University of Liverpool – Commendation
Young Independent Students Bursary, University of East London – Commendation
NEON Widening Access Partnership Award
Access to Elite Courses, Keele University, Harper Adams University, NHS, and Higher Horizons – Winner
Primary School Programme, Cardiff University and Cardiff Council – Winner
Law Factor, Liverpool John Moores University and DWF – Commendation
The 2026 NEON Awards are kindly supported by the UPP Foundation.
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.