166 EXCELLENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION
All annual targets that we set are achieved and several exceeded:
and is celebrated at the heart of British society. It elevates the profile of specialist education and inspires confidence in the college’s mission. How does this win influence your future plans? What can we expect next in 2026? Harrison College is committed to continuing its growth and innovation in specialist post-16 education. We will further develop our Enterprise Academy, creating more opportunities for learners to gain real-world business experience. This includes increasing partnerships with local employers and introducing new enterprise projects that build confidence, independence, and employability skills. Harrison College is committed to continuing its growth and innovation in specialist post-16 education 2026 will see Harrison College expand its provision and deepen its network of businesses across the South Yorkshire city region. These partnerships will provide learners with supported internships, work placements, and pathways into meaningful employment. We are excited to host our annual conference featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers and panelists. This event will bring together educators, employers, and thought leaders to share best practices and explore innovative approaches to inclusion and employability. Harrison College is actively exploring joint venture opportunities in the United Arab Emirates and the wider GCC region. Our goal is to share our expertise in specialist education and enterprise-based learning, creating global partnerships that benefit learners and communities.
The annual graduation ceremony at Harrison College is more than just an event, it is the proudest moment of each academic year because it represents the culmination of every learner’s hard work, resilience, and personal growth. For many of our students, who face additional challenges due to ASD and SEMH needs, graduation is a powerful symbol of achievement and independence. Each student’s journey is unique, and graduation acknowledges not only academic progress but also the development of life skills, confidence, and employability. For the staff and leadership team, seeing students achieve their goals and move forward with hope and ambition is the ultimate reward. It reflects the college’s mission in action: empowering young people to thrive and succeed. Attending the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace would likely be my proudest moment as CEO of Harrison College for several reasons. The invitation itself is a prestigious honor, typically extended to individuals who have made significant contributions to society. For me, this symbolised national recognition of her work in post-16 education, particularly supporting learners with ASD and SEMH needs, a cause that often struggles for visibility. Harrison College is a specialist institution with a unique curriculum designed to empower young people with additional needs. Being invited to Buckingham Palace validates the college’s innovative approach and its success in creating opportunities for students who might otherwise be overlooked. As CEO, I have invested years of effort into building partnerships, advocating for inclusion, and shaping policy. Standing in the gardens of Buckingham Palace represents the culmination of that dedication, a moment where her leadership and vision are acknowledged at the highest level. My attendance sent a powerful message to students and their families: that their educational journey matters
LMI resources are shared with students/parents/carers weekly A ll curriculum areas link to at least one careers linked activity per week P rovide on average 80 meaningful employer encounter per year for every student (equating to 3,200 this academic year) P rovide one internship per student of between 3-6 months totalling 49 this academic year A t least one careers guidance meeting every fortnight
Harrison College is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent young people especially those with additional needs from accessing meaningful education, employment, and independence. Our advocacy and leadership focus on:
Raising Awareness: Promoting understanding of neurodiversity in education and the workplace, including an annual conference and Gemma Peebles speaking at numerous national events and webinars
Challenging Stereotypes: Actively working to dismantle misconceptions about what neurodiverse individuals can achieve.
Influencing Policy and Practice: Engaging with local authorities, employers, and educational bodies such as Chamber of Commerce, SYMCA, LSIP, City of Doncaster Council and Anthropy to shape more inclusive systems.
What has been your proudest moment on the journey to achieving this award? There are 2 different moments for 2 very different reasons.
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