The Bedford College Group recognised nationally for its approach to AI in education

The Bedford College Group, which has campuses across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, has been named a finalist in the Learning with Technology category at the 2026 Get the Nation Learning Awards for its approach to artificial intelligence (AI) in further education.

The awards, organised by Learning and Work Institute, celebrate adult learning across England. The Learning with Technology category, sponsored by Ufi VocTech Trust, recognises organisations using technology to improve learning and widen access to education.

The Group's approach is informed by ongoing PhD research and the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, which helps teachers combine technology with their subject knowledge and teaching methods. Dedicated Digital Innovation Hubs also allow staff to explore new technologies and how they can be used in the classroom.

One example is the work of Jade Hartley, an Access to HE Lecturer, who has introduced alternative assessments using ThingLink and virtual reality. These allow students to demonstrate their knowledge through interactive, verbal and practical activities rather than relying entirely on written assignments.

One student who completed an assessment using ThingLink said: “It allowed me to approach the task in a more interactive and engaging way, which kept me motivated throughout.

“One of the main benefits was that it helped me develop a wider range of skills, particularly my digital skills.”

The work behind the nomination was also showcased at the LASER Awards conference, where Adam Godfrey, Mark Tinney and Jade Hartley discussed how staff are responding to AI in teaching, learning and assessment.

The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday 4 November at The Royal Society in London, during Get the Nation Learning Week, a national campaign encouraging adults to continue learning throughout their lives.

Stephen Evans, Chief Executive of Learning and Work Institute, said: “The Get the Nation Learning Awards recognise the very best in adult learning. They spotlight organisations leading the way in ensuring everyone has the opportunity to learn throughout life and individuals with remarkable learning journeys. We are delighted that The Bedford College Group is one of our award finalists this year. This recognition celebrates their achievements and contribution to learning, and highlights the powerful difference that learning can make to people's lives.”

Adam Godfrey, Head of Digital Experience at The Bedford College Group, said: “AI is changing how people learn and how they demonstrate what they know, so we need to think carefully about how we respond as educators.

“For us, it's not about using technology for the sake of it. It's about giving teachers the time and support to try different approaches and work out what genuinely helps their students.”

For more information about The Bedford College Group, visit https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/

For more information about the Get the Nation Learning Awards, visit https://getthenationlearning.org.uk/