Posted on 17 March
Leeds College of Building (LCB) has been announced as a finalist in the 2026 Education North Awards, recognising the achievements of universities, colleges, and education leaders across the region.
The awards, now in their 12th year, celebrate excellence across higher education, further education and sixth forms from the east to west coast.
LCB is shortlisted in the ‘Campaign of the Year’ category, which celebrates an external relations campaign delivered by an outstanding higher or further education institution that achieved demonstrable impact on success.
The college was selected for its 2025 ‘Build Greatness’ campaign, which transformed perceptions of construction education to mark its 65th anniversary. Challenging stereotypes, LCB launched a bold new brand, website, and digital-first campaign in just eight months — on time and under budget.
Empowering messaging and diverse imagery repositioned the college as modern, inclusive, and aspirational. Results were exceptional with 18 media features (reach 1.1m), web click-through increases of over 1,000%, a 14% rise in 2025 enrolments, and a 15% increase in 2026 applications to date. Most importantly, Build Greatness sparked sector-leading cultural change and growth.
Other finalists in the ‘Campaign of the Year’ category, sponsored by John Kennedy CBE, include Calderdale College, Craven College, Northumbria University, TEC Partnership, The Northern School of Art, The Sheffield College, and University of Salford.
Lyndsey Priestley, Head of Marketing & Student Recruitment at LCB, said:
“We’re thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious northern education award alongside some exceptional peers working across further and higher education. The LCB ‘Build Greatness’ campaign exceeded every objective, modernising LCB’s image with a modest budget and an ambitious timeline.
“This marketing campaign aimed to reposition LCB as truly inclusive and aspirational and allow prospective students to see themselves finally reflected in bold imagery and empowering messaging.
Our outstanding results and stakeholder feedback show the campaign achieved its objectives, and we’re over the moon that this success has been recognised.”
The 2026 Education North Awards finalists reflect the breadth of work happening across the sector, from community partnerships to sustainability programmes and creative arts projects.
Among the other categories are the Digital and AI Innovation Award, Apprenticeship Award, and individual honours, including Leadership and Innovation Award and Student Achievement of the Year.
On the night of the award, the names of three winners – nominated by listeners of Smooth and Heart across the north – will also be unveiled for their outstanding work supporting pupils and students across the region.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony at The Point at Lancashire Cricket Ground on Thursday 7 May, hosted by Lucy Meacock, the long-serving presenter of ITV’s Granada Reports.
Whether as staff, student or apprentice – find out how you can join our LCB family on our website
