Inclusive Education Efforts Earn Chichester College Group National SEND Award 

Chichester College Group (CCG) has been nominated in the 2026 National Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Awards. 

Nominated for the ‘Best use of External Special Needs Professional’ category, it recognises the college group’s ongoing support of a wide range of post‑16 learners with SEND, including a significant number of young people with EHCPs.  

This reflects the group’s strong commitment to inclusive learning, ensuring that students with SEND needs are supported to access learning, enabling them to thrive, progress and achieve alongside their peers.  

Central to this commitment is the close working relationship CCG shares with local organisations such as West Sussex Post‑16 SENAT and Special Needs Officer (SNO) team, as well as with parent carers and health and social care professionals.  

This relationship, with both the SENAT and SNO teams, enables transparent communication, a shared understanding of expectations, and timely issue resolution, reducing conflict and improving confidence for students and their families.  

Reflecting this good work, colleges across the group have reported increased retention, stronger internal progression and improved achievement, underpinned by clearer planning, consistent expectations and deeper collaboration with students.  

The awards, run by educational consultants ‘the Root Of It’, shine a spotlight on some of the most inclusive practices for young people in schools, colleges, educational settings and employment across the UK.  

Vicki Illingworth, Executive Principal and Deputy Chief Executive of the Chichester College Group, said:  

“We are absolutely honoured to receive this nomination, which recognises the dedication of our staff, as well as those external organisations which work with us to make sure we can support each and every student. 

“Across the Chichester College Group, we strive to prioritise inclusion, partnership and person-centred practice, to create an environment where students feel supported, realise their potential and shape their own futures.”