IEG’s Peterborough College Achieves ‘Commended’ Status in AoC Beacon Awards 2024/25 for Excellence in ESOL

Peterborough College, part of Inspire Education Group, has been named a ‘Commended’ college for The Bell Foundation Award for Excellence in ESOL as part of the AoC Beacon Awards 2024/25.

This accolade celebrates the College's impactful and strategic approach to adult education, particularly within its ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) programme. The College's efforts focus on nurturing sustainable employment, building social confidence, and enabling educational progression from entry-level to Level 2—key elements that directly address skills gaps in priority sectors outlined by the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).

With over 1,200 ESOL enrolments, Peterborough College is the largest ESOL provider across the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) area. This increase in enrolments reflects the significant demand for ESOL services in Peterborough, which continues to be a major hub for adult skills and community learning. By partnering with local employers such as Bakkavor, URBN, and GXO, the College delivers ESOL training directly in workplaces, meeting employers' upskilling needs and supporting staff progression, productivity, and satisfaction.

Clare Wookey, Assistant Principal, commented: "I am incredibly proud of our ESOL team. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly every day to improve the lives of Peterborough's ESOL population through language acquisition. IEG strives to ensure that ESOL is 'Accessible to All,' allowing learners to access learning at a time and place that suits their commitments to work, family, and personal development. Working with supportive employers is crucial to unlocking our learners' potential, enhancing their work prospects and integration within their communities."

Peterborough College’s ESOL programme is built on a holistic, inclusive approach that ensures all residents benefit from regional economic growth. The College’s digital ESOL offerings and workplace learning initiatives are widening participation for ESOL learners and aligning with CPCA’s vision to create a more inclusive, skilled workforce. As Peterborough College awaits the final results at the AoC Annual Conference on 12th November, the College remains dedicated to transforming lives and supporting the community’s educational and workforce needs.