The college, which has sites in Beverley, Bridlington, Carnaby and Hull, was named at the Regional Diversity Champions awards 2008 for Yorkshire and the Humber, sponsored by the Learning and Skills Council and the East Coast Centre for Diversity.
It was highly commended in the category 'Embedding equality and diversity in the curriculum'.

The judges highlighted specific examples of 'reaching out to marginalised groups', such as people not in education, employment or training (NEETS), and working with groups in the community to achieve this.

As part of its award submission, the college gave examples of its work to promote equality and diversity.

They include:

• Providing courses specifically designed for pupils excluded from school and NEETS.




• Working with organisations such as Dove House Hospice, the Madyamaka Meditation Centre and Yorkshire and Humber Faiths.




• Specialist speakers for lessons and extra-curricular events.




• Staff development to promote understanding among College employees.


• Training student reps receive on how to represent the views of fellow learners.

Helen Kitson, head of curriculum area for Key and Basic Skills, said: "This commendation is a reward for our efforts to ensure everyone can succeed at our college, regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religion or beliefs.

"We work really hard to promote diversity and equality in the College among staff, learners and the partners we work with."

The college also runs courses in equality and diversity and managing diversity.
For more information, tel 0845 120 0037.