The countdown begins…
The HELOA National Conference Awards return in 2026 to celebrate and recognise the inspiring work being carried out by our members across the UK. These awards shine a light on excellence, creativity, and impact within the fields of student recruitment, outreach, and access.
We will be accepting nominations from member institutions on Thursday 4 September 2025. Whether it’s a pioneering project, an innovative initiative, or a resourceful low-budget solution, this is your opportunity to showcase the brilliant work taking place in your institution and team.
Entries open: Thursday 4 September 2025
A nomination guide will be provided when entries open
To help you prepare a strong submission, a full guide outlining the requirements and judging criteria for each award category will be published when entries open. This will include what the judges are looking for and tips to help your nomination stand out.
Award categories
🏆 Award for Best Practice in Widening Participation, Outreach, and Access
Celebrating impactful work that improves access to higher education for underrepresented groups, supports fair access, and empowers learners to make informed decisions.
🏆 Award for Best Practice in Student Recruitment
Recognising excellence and innovation in student recruitment activity, from campaigns and communications to events and engagement strategies that support prospective students on their journey to higher education.
🏆 Award for Best Postgraduate Initiative
This category honours outstanding work that supports and informs prospective postgraduate students, whether through targeted outreach, tailored events, or dedicated content and resources.
🏆 Award for Best Undergraduate Initiative
Recognising initiatives that make a significant impact on undergraduate recruitment or support—from creative campaigns and virtual experiences to bespoke support for applicants and offer holders.
🏆 Award for Best Small or Low Budget Initiative
Celebrating creativity and innovation achieved with limited resources. This award showcases the power of small-scale initiatives to deliver big impact across recruitment, outreach, or access.
Why submit a nomination?
The HELOA Awards offer a platform to highlight and share best practice, inspire the wider membership, and celebrate the hard work of individuals and teams making a real difference in the sector.
Note: Sponsorship details for the 2026 awards will be confirmed in due course.
Ready to shine a spotlight on success?
Entries open Thursday 4 September 2025 – keep an eye out for the nomination guide and submission link. In the meantime, you can get some inspiration from our 2025 nominees and winners.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact George Green, Vice-Chair for Group Development who is managing the awards this year: groupdevelopment@heloa.ac.uk.
Let’s celebrate together and recognise the incredible achievements made across the sector!