A group of Newcastle students have earned national recognition after being honoured at three award ceremonies this year.
Hedleys College, part of the Percy Hedley Foundation, is a specialist further education college in Forest Hall that supports young adults with disabilities.
Its innovative Disability Awareness Training programme is entirely led and developed by students, who use their own lived experiences to challenge perceptions, break down barriers, and encourage open conversations about disability.
The training has already reached more than 1,200 people this year alone, including students, schools, and local employers. It inspires participants to embrace learning, challenge stigma, and promote greater inclusion through their thoughts and actions.
First recognised nationally at the British Diversity Awards as Community Project of the Year, the programme went on to be highly commended at the Employer Network Awards and, most recently, took home the Disability Impact Award at the Charity Today Awards.
Students have proudly represented Hedleys College at each award ceremony, with the training also featured on BBC Look North earlier this year.
Reflecting on the recognition, students shared their excitement:
“Lost for words.” – Michael
“A dream come true.” – Harvey
“This is the best day ever!” – Jack
As Hedleys College approaches its 20th anniversary next year, opportunities like these continue to demonstrate how every student’s potential can be recognised, celebrated, and empowered.
Jo Rees-Proud, principal of Hedleys College said:
“It has been a fantastic year for us at Hedleys College, and receiving national recognition is a true reflection of that success. Our students continue to inspire us with their ambition, dedication, and remarkable achievements. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see them embrace such exciting opportunities. Every single one of our students should be proud of what they have accomplished, I know that I certainly am.”
