Kent has been shortlisted for ‘Higher Education Institution of the Year’ at the National Education Opportunities Network (NEON) Awards 2025.

The NEON awards provide a platform to celebrate the successes and accomplishments in supporting learners from underrepresented groups to access and succeed within higher education.

Kent has been recognised for its commitment to widening access for underrepresented groups throughout the student lifecycle, and for successfully embedding this work across the institution from the outreach work delivered in the region to  senior management actions. The award shortlisting also acknowledges the diversity of Kent’s student body, demonstrated through its innovative teaching and learning approaches as well as student support.

Kent’s regionally focussed and collaborative outreach work was acknowledged as sector best practice, particularly the evidence-based and impact-assessed attainment raising work, co-created and delivered in collaboration with local schools.

Kent’s approach to careers advice and support for students from underrepresented backgrounds, as well as evidence of progress made in widening access also impressed the judges.  The dedicated employability scheme for widening participation students, with bursary support, ensures financial barriers do not hinder professional growth. Kent’s Empower Scheme also enhances employability for underrepresented students, improving continuation and completion rates.

Clare Allison, Head of Widening Participation and Outreach at Kent, said: ‘We are delighted to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. Kent is deeply committed to widening access and ensuring that all students can succeed, regardless of background, and we are proud to be recognised for this. By embedding accessibility, student-centred policies, and robust career support into our core operations, we go beyond widening access – actively removing barriers to success. We look forward to the awards ceremony in June and wish our fellow nominees the best of luck.’

Award winners will be announced at the NEON awards ceremony on Thursday 5 June at the Palace of Westminster.