RNCM celebrate huge win at Educate North Awards 2025

On a night that celebrated northern excellence in education, one of Manchester’s proudest institutions took centre stage.

The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) has been named ‘Outstanding School, College or University’ at the 2025 Educate North Awards, beating out over 500 contenders from across the region.

Held at the Hilton Hotel in the city centre on April 3rd, the awards ceremony honoured RNCM not just for its musical prowess—though it is, after all, ranked No. 5 in the world for music—but for its innovative approach to education, deep-rooted community values, and bold commitment to sustainability.

For Professor Linda Merrick CBE, Principal of the College, the win is a meaningful one.

“‘The RNCM is a remarkable place, and we are dedicated to offering a stimulating and innovative environment in which our students can thrive. To receive an award which recognises the RNCM’s innovative approach to music education and our core values as an institution is a truly special accolade.’

Music with purpose

While its global reputation for musical excellence continues to grow, RNCM’s heart beats loudest in Manchester. The college is a cultural cornerstone of the city, regularly opening its doors to the public for performances, community outreach, and collaboration with local artists and schools.

But it’s also setting the tempo for change in the education sector. RNCM was also shortlisted for the Sustainable Green Initiative Award for its acclaimed The Future is Green series—an ambitious programme of events tackling climate change through music, discussion, and action. From carbon-reducing strategies to student-led environmental projects, the College is turning up the volume on sustainability.

Awards judge Jamie Griffiths, Group Content Director at category sponsor Communicorp UK, commented: ‘This year, we saw a significant increase in entries for Outstanding School, College or University. Our task was to find a winner that demonstrated exceptional community impact over the past year while shaping people and organisations for the future. The Royal Northern College of Music stood out for its commitment to accessibility and commendable environmental initiatives.’

A cultural force in the north

Manchester has long been a city of music, from the Hacienda to Hallé Orchestra, and the RNCM sits proudly at the centre of that tradition.

Through partnerships with schools, accessible concert programming, and a clear vision for a greener future, the RNCM continues to play a vital role in the cultural fabric of the city.

As the Educate North Awards mark a decade of recognising the best in northern education, RNCM’s triumph feels particularly symbolic—a reminder that world-class doesn’t have to mean far away. Sometimes, it’s right on your doorstep.

What’s on at RNCM?

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