UCS College Group, which brings together Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College and Taunton College, is celebrating after being shortlisted for the Technology and Innovation Award at the Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards 2026.
The award recognises the work taking place across the College Group to make better use of digital technology and artificial intelligence to support teaching, learning and students.
As part of The Groups ‘Digital For All’ commitment, UCS College Group has worked with Apple and received support through the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) to provide more than 2,000 10th generation iPads for students to use throughout their studies.
The technology is now being used in a variety of ways across teaching and learning, including AI-supported learning and assessment, digital portfolios, interactive quizzes, AI-generated podcasts and video analysis. In Sport, students are also using wearable technology and GPS equipment to collect and understand real-time performance data.
The work is already making a difference. 100% of students successfully completed their Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science course, with 88% of them achieving a high-grade profile in 2025/26, while engagement in live online sessions has consistently exceeded 90%. The College Group’s work has also received national recognition, including a silver medal in the 2026 Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Digital Innovation & AI will be central to the delivery of the strategy, the Group has bold ambitions and is committed to ensuring students will benefit from the continued investment in technology and new approaches to teaching and learning.
We are really pleased to be shortlisted for the Technology and Innovation Award and to see the work of our staff and students recognised.
Digital and AI is one of the Strategic Enablers supporting our Strategy 2035, and we are continuing to explore how technology can improve the experience of our students and support our staff.
Our aim is to inspire students through transformational education, giving them the skills and confidence they need for the future. Technology is an important part of this, but it is always about making a real difference to people.
Louise Rowley
Executive Principal, UCS College Group
UCS College Group will join fellow finalists at the Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards 2026, where the winner of the Technology and Innovation Award will be announced In November.
For more information, please contact the UCS College Group Communications team via thecommunicationsteam@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or on 01278 441349.