Inspire Education Group Shortlisted for Large Business of the Year at 2025 Rutland & Stamford Mercury Awards
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Inspire Education Group (IEG) is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for two prestigious categories at the 2025 Rutland & Stamford Mercury Business Awards: Large Business of the Year and Environmental Champion.
The Large Business of the Year category recognises organisations that demonstrate significant growth, community engagement, strategic leadership and a genuine commitment to their people. As one of the largest further and higher education providers in the region, IEG play a vital role in supporting local employers through co-designed curriculum, apprenticeships, and technical qualifications that meet real-world needs.
Rachel Nicholls, CEO of Inspire Education Group, commented, “This nomination is a powerful recognition of Inspire Education Group’s role as a major driver of economic growth and opportunity in our region. We’ve grown not only in scale, but in the value of what we deliver - from equipping thousands of students with industry-ready skills to partnering with employers to shape the workforce of the future. I’m incredibly proud of our teams for turning ambition into meaningful impact for the communities we serve.”
The Environmental Champion award recognises businesses that make a measurable impact on sustainability, from reducing emissions to promoting environmental awareness. IEG was selected for its strategic investment in low-carbon facilities such as Stamford College’s Modern Methods of Construction Centre, sponsored by Allison Homes, and Peterborough College’s £13.7m Centre for Green Technology, as well as student-led biodiversity projects and its Group-wide commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions.
“At Inspire Education Group, sustainability isn’t a side initiative - it’s central to our purpose." Rachel added, "Being shortlisted as Environmental Champion reflects our bold investment in green skills, our brand-new Centre for Green Technology, and our responsibility to prepare learners for the climate-resilient careers of tomorrow. We’re proud to lead by example in building a greener, more sustainable future for our communities.”
In addition to these nominations, IEG is also proud to sponsor the Best Social Enterprise category, which celebrates the vital role that charities and purpose-driven organisations play in supporting local communities.
We support employers to develop their people and their organisations. We strive to make a positive contribution to the prosperity and wellbeing of our diverse communities.
