Community programme wins Times Higher Education award

Birkbeck's Community Leadership Programme has won the Times Higher Education Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community award.

One of the award judges said: "I was particularly struck by the long-term potential of this programme, not only to make an impact on the individuals taking part, but to empower them to make a real difference to some of the most challenging and difficult issues facing disadvantaged communities across London".

Established in 2005 in partnership with the London Civic Forum, the Community Leadership Programme provides community leadership development for participants from voluntary and community sector organisations, faith community organisations, local government officers and councillors. The programme enables learners to gain key knowledge about community development, regeneration partnerships working with local authorities, social enterprise, community cohesion work, including inter-faith dialogue and participation in the new forms of local governance.

The course was developed by Professor John Annette, Pro-Vice- Master for Lifelong Learning and Engagement, is led by Dr William Ackah and is taught in the Department for Social Policy and Education.

In its fifth year, the Times Higher Education Awards saw 600 entries from 137 of the UK's higher education institutions. The winners were announced on 15 October.