London South East Colleges (LSEC) was presented with the Social Impact Award at last night’s prestigious Above and Beyond Bromley Business Awards (ABBBAS).
The accolades celebrate businesses in Bromley that contribute significantly to the local community, demonstrating the very best in the Borough. Categories ranged from best start-up, best micro and best independent businesses, through to business personality and community hero.
The Social Impact Award focused on the effectiveness of an organisation’s social initiatives in its community and how it was: ‘helping to drive social change and uplift disadvantaged groups or communities.’
With a mission to transform lives through the power of learning, LSEC has become a social enterprise leader in further and higher education, significantly impacting the communities it serves across Bromley and surrounding areas.
The college has generated over £22 million in social value this year alone, driven by initiatives including community volunteering, local partnerships, and support for disadvantaged groups.
Collecting the award at the ceremony last night, Executive Principal, Asfa Sohail, said:
"We are delighted to win this Social Impact Award. It reflects our commitment to building an inclusive and innovative environment for students to learn in and develop the skills they need for great careers.
“We are more than just a college. We support our communities by creating educational opportunities for everyone, regardless of background or ambition. Working with local businesses is an important part of this and we are very grateful for the support they provide the college and our students.
“Bromley is a fantastic Borough and we congratulate all the finalists and winners.”
Among the College’s many social impact initiatives is its Good Work Bromley Exchange progamme. This is designed in partnership with the London Borough of Bromley, the Department for Work and Pensions, and other local organisations to support people on the margins of employment. It provides skill-building opportunities and pathways into the workforce, benefiting people with disabilities, mental health challenges, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Additionally, the College’s commitment to sustainability shines through its Green Skills Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) and investment in a new STEM training centre, equipping students with critical skills for emerging green industries and supporting employers to fill skills gaps.
LSEC has also spearheaded the Good for Me Good for FE campaign, a national initiative that has inspired more than 150 colleges across the UK to engage in community fundraising and volunteering, collectively generating millions of pounds in social value.
For more information about these projects – and about the many qualifications and courses on offer at London South East Colleges, visit: LSEC.ac.uk