Norland highly commended in THE Awards

Norland – the world-renowned leader in early childhood education and care – is proud to announce its Highly Commended honour in the Specialist Institution of the Year category at the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2025.

Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the THE Awards celebrate the talent, commitment and innovation of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life. This year marked the introduction of the Specialist Institution of the Year award, designed to honour the vital contribution of specialist providers in UK and Irish higher education. Norland’s commendation in this inaugural category reflects its unwavering dedication to consistent excellence in higher education and training.

Dr Janet Rose, Principal of Norland, said:

“To be Highly Commended in this new category is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the passion, expertise and commitment of our entire Norland community. As a specialist provider, we are dedicated to setting the highest standards in early childhood education and care, and this recognition affirms our mission to shape the future of the sector.”

The Times Higher Education judges praised Norland for its transformative impact:

“Norland did not merely educate; it transformed lives, shaped futures and set new standards for excellence and innovation.”

The panel added:

“From its rigorous academic programmes and cutting-edge initiatives to its community engagement and global influence, Norland exemplifies what it means to be a specialist institution of the highest calibre and to establish itself as a beacon of excellence in specialist higher education globally.”

Senior Leadership Team pose at Times Higher Education Awards

Norland’s reputation for excellence is further underscored by its Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 — placing it among the top 12% of providers nationally and one of the few to achieve Gold in all categories. As a multi-award-winning institution with indefinite degree awarding powers, Norland is uniquely positioned to become the world’s first specialist early childhood university.

This commendation highlights Norland’s pioneering approach, which blends rigorous academic programmes with practical training and lifelong career support for its graduates. The institution continues to set the benchmark for specialist provision, inspiring the next generation of graduate early years professionals.

Find out more about the Times Higher Education Award winners 2025