Norland shortlisted for Specialist Institution of the Year award
8 September 2025
Norland has been named as a finalist in the new Specialist Institution of the Year award, by Times Higher Education.
Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards recognise the talent, commitment and innovation of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life.
Norland is delighted to have been named as a finalist in this year’s brand-new category at the THE awards, which recognises the crucial role of specialist institutions in UK and Irish higher education.
It is the second time that Norland has been shortlisted at the prestigious higher education awards, having been a finalist in the Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team category in 2023.
The awards panel recognised Norland’s outstanding achievements, commenting: “Norland did not merely educate; it transformed lives, shaped futures and set new standards for excellence and innovation.”
The panel added: “Norland’s consistent achievement of the highest accolades, innovative educational offerings, outstanding graduate outcomes, and impactful research and outreach activities demonstrate its exceptional performance and steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation and impact.
“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.”
Dr Janet Rose, Principal of Norland, said: “We are incredibly honoured to be shortlisted for the prestigious Specialist Institution of the Year THE Award in its inaugural year. This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence, innovative education and research, and life-transforming impact.
“Our unique approach, combining the latest academic knowledge with practical skills and real-world experience, sets our graduates apart and ensures they are highly sought-after around the world. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire Norland community.”
This recognition underscores Norland’s unwavering dedication to consistent excellence in higher education and training. Norland holds a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. Despite its small size, it stands among a select few providers to achieve Gold in all categories – the highest standard possible – placing it in the top 12% nationally. A multi-award-winning institution, Norland also holds indefinite degree awarding powers, positioning it to become the world’s first specialist early years university.
Winners will be announced on 13 November at the EICC in Edinburgh, the first time this ceremony has been held in Scotland.
