'A proud moment for the entire community': Leeds sixth form named the best in the North as it scoops top award
The college received high praise from judges ⭐
A Leeds sixth form has been named the best further education college in the North, after it scooped a top award.
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College in Woodhouse has been crowned Further Education College of the Year 2026 at the Educate North Awards 2026.
The college, which was found to be outstanding in all categories in its latest Ofsted report, was praised for its educational outcomes and its commitment to supporting students from disadvantaged and diverse communities.
Notre Dame’s principal, Justine Barlow, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition.
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“This award reflects the incredible dedication of our staff, the ambition and resilience of our students, and the strength of our wider college community.
“At Notre Dame, we are driven by our mission and ethos to ensure every young person can be the best they can be and achieve exceptional outcomes regardless of background, and it is wonderful to see that work recognised on a regional stage.
“The award is a proud moment for the entire Notre Dame community and reinforces the college’s commitment to providing life-changing opportunities for young people across the region.”
The winners of the Educate North Awards, now in their 14th year, were announced at a ceremony at the Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground on May 7.
The awards highlight achievements and improvement across the university, higher education, further education and sixth form sectors in the north of England.
“Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College has been celebrated for its outstanding academic performance and transformational impact for its students from highly disadvantaged diverse communities,” a spokesperson for the awards said.
“The judges praised its consistently excellent outcomes, elimination of achievement gaps, and strong progression to positive destinations. They also highlighted its high staff satisfaction, exceptional student support, and nationally leading curriculum and enrichment.”