Double Award Shortlist for College Project

Sunderland College and Sunderland Culture worked together in partnership to develop the ‘Autonomy Project’, which has been shortlisted for not one but two awards.

The Autonomy Project has been shortlisted for both the Special Award for Young Achievement for the North East Culture Awards 2025 along with the Volunteering Project in the Year for the Good for Me Good for FE awards 2025.

Sunderland College and Sunderland Culture worked together in partnership with students to showcase their creative talents at an exhibition aimed at creating connectedness for local young people.

Michelle Patterson, Programme Lead at Sunderland College said: “We’re incredibly proud that the Autonomy project has been nominated for these awards.

“It’s been amazing to see students grow in confidence, express their creativity, and connect with the wider community. This nomination recognises their individuality, their voices, and the impact of truly inclusive practice.”

This recognition celebrates the creativity, commitment, and impact of everyone involved in the project and the partnership has been recognised and continues to make a huge difference to the lives of young people in the city.

Vicki Kennedy, Head of Learning and Participation at Sunderland Culture added: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Autonomy has been shortlisted for these two awards. This partnership with Sunderland College has been a powerful example of what happens when creativity, understanding, and opportunity come together.

“The autistic young people involved have not only developed their artistic skills but have also grown in confidence, self-expression, and independence. Their ideas and voices have shaped every part of the project, and their achievements are an inspiration — showing how inclusive creative practice can unlock potential and truly transform lives.”

The project saw the talented young people of SEND Provision at Sunderland College explore their creativity, special interests and make new connections in partnership with the different venues. It was exhibited at the National Glass Centre at the beginning of the year, with Sunderland Culture hosting the event.

It provided opportunities for young people and adults with autism opportunities to show off their work including portraits, glass, prints, photography, animation, and audio described arts award work.

Now in their third year, the Good for Me Good for FE awards – sponsored by NCFE, The Skills Network and FE Associates – recognise colleges’ social impact and the millions of pounds of social value generated through community action.

The Culture Awards celebrate and showcase the cultural infrastructure and diversity of our fantastic region – from the Tees Valley to the Scottish Borders. The North East has a lot of great art and culture and with the Culture Awards now into their eighteenth year, the scene shows no signs of slowing.

The Autonomy Project gave students the freedom and confidence to explore cultural activities in ways that are meaningful to them. Through creative experiences and genuine choice, students were able to discover new interests, develop communication skills, and build a stronger sense of belonging.

Sophie, Directions student, also said: “I have really enjoyed having the opportunity to try something new. I liked that I could sandcast something that interests me. Accessing this programme got me out of college and positively into the community on trips.”

The ceremonies are set to take place on 27th November and 5th December, where the winners will be announced.