Awards for inspiration

Staff who have helped students from poor backgrounds to aspire to a place at university have had their work recognised through a new award scheme.

The first national Aimhigher awards were announced this week at a ceremony in Leeds.

Aimhigher Lancashire, based at the University of Central Lancashire, won the award for partnership of the year, after changing its structure to link in with the Government's 14-19 strategy and to target money more effectively. Karyn Buck at Aimhigher Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire won the award for outstanding individual contribution. Aimhigher Nottinghamshire won the award for most innovative practice.