Head and shoulder shot of Stacey Higgs, Director of Campus at Dearne Valley College

Shining a Spotlight on Excellence: Our Campus Director Nominated for 40 Under Forty’s Awards in Education

18 September 2026 • News

We are thrilled to share some incredible news with our college community: Our Campus Director Stacey has officially been selected as a finalist for the prestigious 40 Under forty’s Award in the Education category.

This recognition is a testament to extraordinary leadership, dedication, and vision of Stacey throughout her career thus far. It highlights not only individual achievement, but also the vibrant, forward-thinking environment we strive to build across our campus every single day.

What are the 40 Under 40 Awards?

The 40 Under Forty’s Awards are among the most respected honours in the UK and across the globe!  The awards range across industries and are designed to identify, celebrate, and spotlight the next generation of exceptional leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

The selection process is rigorous, and nominees are evaluated on a comprehensive set of metrics:

  1. Professional Success and Impact: Demonstrating tangible growth, administrative excellence, and meaningful transformation in their institution(s).
  1. Innovation: Introducing creative programs, modernising learning environments, and adapting to the evolving landscape of education. 
  1. Community Leadership: Serving as an inspiration to students, faculty, stakeholders and staff whilst fostering inclusive, supportive, and growth-oriented communities.

In the Education Category, the award specifically honours leaders under 40 who are actively reshaping the future of learning.  It recognises individuals who go above and beyond standard administration to champion student success, empower educators, and pioneer new paths in academic quality.

Director of Campus Stacey Higgs stood outside of the Dearne Valley College building

Why this Nomination is a Major Milestone

Being nominated for a 40 Under Forty award is for more than a personal milestone, it is a landmark success for our entire organisation.

This recognition showcases that:

  1. Leading a campus requires balancing strategic planning, academic integrity, student experience, and operational growth. This nomination signals that Stacey’s vision is not only working but setting a benchmark in the broader educational sector. 
  1. Being recognised nationally elevates the entire institution. It reaffirms to you, our students, faculty, and community, that our campus is guided by one of the sharpest, most dedicated young minds in education today.
  1. Seeing our Campus Director named alongside top trailblazers sends a powerful message to our student body. It shows that passion, hard work, and continuous innovation can yield remarkable results early in one’s career.

Looking Ahead

As our Campus Director moves forward in the selection process, we extend our heartfelt congratulations. This nomination is a well-deserved tribute to the tireless work, innovative spirit, and ongoing commitment to making our campus a place where everyone thrives.

Please join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement, we are incredibly proud!

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