Northern Regional College shortlisted for five OCN NI Learning Endeavour Awards 2025

Ian Forsythe has been named as a finalist in the Inspiring Tutor of the Year category at the OCN NI Learning Endeavour Awards 2025

Northern Regional College has reaffirmed its position as a leading provider of further and higher education in Northern Ireland, with nominations in five categories at the prestigious Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN NI) Learning Endeavour Awards 2025.

The winners will be announced at a high-profile gala ceremony on 24 June 2025 at Titanic Belfast, celebrating learners, educators and institutions across Northern Ireland for their commitment to excellence in education and lifelong learning.

Among those shortlisted are three individuals from Northern Regional College who exemplify the College’s ethos of dedication and achievement.

Health and Social Care student Sam Welsh has been named a finalist for Further Education Learner of the Year, recognising his outstanding commitment and academic performance.

In the Inspiring Tutor/Teacher of the Year category, Carpentry lecturer Ian Forsythe has been acknowledged for his exceptional support and guidance to students.

Northern Regional College Student Charlie Fleck has been nominated for Traineeship Apprenticeship Learner of the Year at the OCN NI Learning Endeavour Awards 2025 

Meanwhile, joinery apprentice Charlie Fleck has been nominated for Traineeship/Apprenticeship Learner of the Year, highlighting the College’s strength in vocational education and skills training.

In addition to these individual accolades, the College itself has been shortlisted for two significant institutional awards: Advancing Learning Through Innovation and the coveted Provider of the Year.

These nominations reflect Northern Regional College’s continued investment in innovative teaching methods, learning technologies, and student success strategies.

Speaking about this year’s awards, Martin Flynn, Chief Executive of OCN NI, said:

“These awards celebrate the dedication, hard work, and outstanding achievements of our learners and the invaluable support provided by our centres. The shortlisted learners and organisations reflect educational excellence in Northern Ireland and their commitment to lifelong learning. Congratulations to all those who have been shortlisted.”

College Principal and Chief Executive Mel Higgins welcomed the recognition, saying:

“We are proud to see our students and staff recognised by OCN NI in five of nine categories. These nominations are a testament to the hard work, resilience and talent within our College community. At Northern Regional College, we are committed to supporting all our learners to reach their full potential and prepare for successful careers and it’s fantastic to see that reflected through these prestigious awards.”

The OCN NI Learning Endeavour Awards are an annual celebration of learner achievements and the impact of educational institutions throughout Northern Ireland.

Organised by Open College Network Northern Ireland, an educational charity and awarding body, the event highlights the transformative power of learning and the role it plays in personal development, career progression, and community enrichment.

Northern Regional College has a strong track record at the Learning Endeavour Awards, with previous years seeing both staff and students celebrated for their achievements. The 2025 nominations further cement the College’s reputation for delivering high-quality education and inspiring learners to reach their potential.