Leeds Partnership Awards 2026 Categories Announced

Recognising Contributions Across University Community

The Leeds Partnership Awards, an annual event celebrating the achievements of staff and students at the University of Leeds, have announced their categories for 2026. These awards acknowledge contributions in areas including teaching, research, wellbeing, equality, and community engagement.

Last year’s awards attracted over 2,700 nominations, reflecting a wide range of dedication and talent within the university community. Nominations for the 2026 awards will open on 24 November 2025 and close on 19 February 2026.

Student Categories

• Student of the Year: Open to any enrolled student who has made a significant and lasting impact on the learning culture or development within their subject, department, or faculty.
• Postgraduate Researcher of the Year: For postgraduate researchers who have positively influenced the learning environment or cohort experience.
• Apprentice of the Year: Awarded to apprentices who have contributed notably to learning or cohort development.
• Academic Rep of the Year: Recognises individuals or groups serving as Course Reps, School Reps, Faculty Officers, or PGR Reps who have effectively represented peers and driven positive change.
• Student Leader of the Year: For students in leadership roles within the university or Leeds University Union who have enhanced their group or initiative.

Staff Categories

• Academic Personal Tutor or Supervisor of the Year: For staff with tutoring or supervisory responsibilities who have significantly supported their students’ success.
• Teacher of the Year: Awarded to staff demonstrating innovative teaching methods that improve student engagement and learning.
• Technical Staff Member or Team of the Year: Recognises technical staff or teams who support teaching and learning through subject-specific expertise.
• Student Education and Experience Award: For staff or teams providing direct support that positively impacts students’ educational experience.
• Professional Services Staff Member or Team of the Year: For non-teaching staff or teams committed to improving workplace culture or student experience.

Mixed and Overall Categories

• Student-Staff Partnership of the Year: For collaborative groups involving students, university, or union staff working to enhance education or student experience.
• Community Impact and Innovation Award: Recognises individuals or teams contributing to research or initiatives that have a significant impact on local or broader communities.
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusive Practice Award: For those advancing equality, diversity, or inclusive practices within the university or union.
• Mentorship Award: Awarded to individuals or teams providing impactful mentorship supporting learning or professional development.
• Wellbeing Award: For exceptional commitment to wellbeing support or initiatives within the university or union.
• The Overall Partnership Award: Presented to a standout winner from the local Partnership Award ceremonies, recognising exceptional contribution.

The awards aim to highlight the values of collaboration, respect, and the enhancement of the student experience across the University of Leeds community. Further details on nominations and eligibility can be found on the Leeds University Union website.