Robert Gordon University

Robert Gordon University (RGU) has been named Higher Educational Institution of the Year at the prestigious Herald Education Awards 2026. Judges were impressed with RGU’s ongoing commitment to employability, access and community impact.

RGU also won the Partnership with Schools award for the important work being carried by the University’s Hub Widening Access Model to create fresh routes into higher education.

The double awards success came at a glittering awards ceremony held in Glasgow with the Herald Education Awards celebrating the efforts of those in the higher and further education sectors.

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of RGU, said: “Being named Higher Educational Institution of the Year 2026 is a tremendous achievement and is something everyone connected with the University can feel immensely proud of.

“It is an amazing reflection of the commitment of our staff and shines a light on our collective efforts to become the UK’s leading work‑integrated university by 2030.

“Winning the Partnership with Schools award is fantastic and shows how we are committed to providing pathways into higher education and this success highlights how RGU is continuing to play a vital role in maintaining crucial links with the communities we serve.”

Peter Tormey, Head of UK Recruitment and Access at RGU, said: “The Partnership with Schools award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our team, alongside colleagues from across the University who support this important work.

"Together, they have built strong relationships with schools across our region, helping to improve access to higher education and highlight the lifelong benefits it can bring. This is a fantastic achievement for both our team and the University, and one we are incredibly proud of."