Two changemaking Sunderland College projects that support young people across the City have been recognised in a major national report published by the Children’s Commissioner for England.
The college’s work supporting vulnerable students and improving opportunities for those at risk of falling out of education or training were highlighted in Setting Young People Up for Success – College Sector, published in March 2026.
The report, commissioned by Dame Rachel de Souza, offers insight into how colleges across the country are helping young people overcome mental health, poverty and wellbeing challenges, and prepare for their futures.
This report focuses on England’s colleges, recognising both their distinct role and the shared challenges they face supporting young people, many with complex needs, who are overcoming barriers outside education such as transport, wellbeing, and access to local services which affect their ability to succeed.
Sunderland College’s work stood out as an example of how collaboration and data-driven approaches can make a real difference.
Working closely with Sunderland City Council, the college has been able to offer targeted support in communities where it is needed most, delivering tailored programmes in Sunderland who those who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), or at risk of disengaging with education, including support for young parents, and provide dedicated learning opportunities for home educated young people.
The project is already making a positive difference, helping young people re-engage with learning and build skills for the future.
The second project recognised in the report is helping young people with mental health challenges make a successful transition from school to college.
In partnership with Sunderland and South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, the college has introduced on-site mental health practitioners who can early support, special summer transition sessions to help new students feel comfortable and confident, and ongoing wellbeing support through group sessions that build friendships and resilience.
The summer sessions proved hugely popular, filling up within 24 hours, highlighting the need for this type of support at such a critical stage in young people’s lives.
Vikkie Morton, Vice Principal for Student Life and Stronger Communities, said: “We are incredibly proud to see our work recognised nationally. These projects are all about supporting some of our young people in Sunderland to overcome barriers, build confidence and achieve their goals.
“By working closely with our partners, we are helping to create better opportunities for young people across our city.”
Dame Rachel de Souza added: “Colleges are an important part of the education system, helping young people at a pivotal moment in their lives as they move towards adulthood and the world of work.
“Young people themselves have told me how much they care about building a good future for themselves, so we must listen to young people’s experiences to ensure a smooth, successful move into adulthood and employment for every young person.
“For the first time, we have a national picture of how colleges are supporting young people, often going beyond their core role to help with challenges outside the college grounds.”
Sunderland College, as part of college group EPNE, receives an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.
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98% of our students progress to a positive destination
(*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).
Our achievement rates are well above the national average.
We are the College of the Year.
(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)
100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study.
(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)
We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.
