Going Green, Going Further: Chichester College Group Shortlisted for National Environmental Award

Chichester College Group has been recognised for its commitment to building a more sustainable future after being shortlisted for a national environmental award.

The group has been named a finalist in the 2026 United Kingdom and Ireland Green Gown Awards, delivered by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges in partnership with United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI).

The awards celebrate outstanding sustainability initiatives from universities, colleges and other post-16 institutions across the UK and Ireland.

Selected from a record number of entries, the recognition highlights the growing impact of the group’s environmental efforts and its dedication to creating a greener future for students, staff and local communities.

The shortlist comprises 156 finalists from 91 institutions across a total of 16 categories. It features a diverse range of innovative approaches to environmental and social sustainability, celebrating actions taken by institutions as well as individuals and teams.

CCG has been shortlisted in the ‘Next Generation Learning and Skills’ category which recognises achievement in the development of academic courses, skills and capabilities relevant to sustainability.

The group is embedding green skills into construction, engineering and building services training so learners, apprentices and existing tradespeople can support the transition to the low carbon-built environment.

Building on Department for Education Strategic Development Fund investment through Greener Sussex, the project is moving from one-off investment into sustained curriculum delivery and employer-led, skills development.

Across Crawley, Chichester, Brighton MET and East Brighton Campus, learners are gaining practical experience in decarbonisation academies, photovoltaic systems, air source heat pumps, low carbon heating, EV charging, rainwater and greywater systems, circular economy approaches and heritage building skills.

A prime example is the impressive new Vaillant Training Facility at Brighton East Campus which opened in July. It aims to provide future engineers with the hands-on skills and qualifications they need to lead the transition to low-carbon heating – backed by real industry equipment and expert tutors.

Developed in partnership with the Vaillant Group and Optimus Energy, it is the first facility of its kind in the UK, combining industry-grade equipment with nationally recognised qualifications and expert instruction.

The award winners will be announced in Leeds on November 16.

Helen Loftus, Principal of Chichester College, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Chichester College Group has been named a finalist in the Green Gown Awards.

“This recognition reflects the dedication, creativity and commitment of our staff, apprentices and partners in embedding sustainability across every aspect of college life.

“We are passionate about creating a greener future, not only through our own operations but by equipping our students and apprentices with the knowledge, skills and values needed to make a positive impact on the world around them.

“Being recognised alongside other leading institutions is a tremendous achievement, and I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this success.”

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