Coleg y Cymoedd recognised in this year’s AoC Beacon Awards for Engagement Hybs Initiative

11 November 2025

Coleg y Cymoedd is proud to have been commended in this year’s Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards for our Engagement Hybs – a newly established college-wide initiative designed to provide inclusive, learner-led support for all students from Entry Level 3 to Level 3.

The Engagement Hybs were created to remove barriers to learning and to ensure every learner has access to academic, digital, social, and emotional support. Each learner receives up to two hours of timetabled Hyb access per week, with additional one-to-one coaching available for those at risk of disengaging or becoming NEET.

A key part of the Hybs’ success is that the spaces and support model were shaped directly by learner voice. From layout and quiet zones to workshop themes and wellbeing activities, learners played an active role in designing what the Hybs look and feel like. This co-creation has helped to establish a sense of ownership, belonging and trust – ensuring that learners feel the Hybs are spaces made for them, not just offered to them.

The Hybs encourage independence while offering structured guidance from specialist Engagement Coaches. Learners can seek help with assignments, revision, digital tools, organisation, confidence-building, and wellbeing. The Hybs also host workshops and visits from partners such as Barclays, Women’s Aid, South Wales Police, Big Ideas Wales and others, connecting learners with real-world knowledge, employment pathways and community support.

Since launching, the Engagement Hybs have had a significant positive impact across the college:

Increased learner engagement and retention
Strengthened partnerships with schools and community organisations
Higher participation from learners previously at risk of disengagement
Consistently high learner satisfaction feedback

Principal Jonathan Morgan congratulated the team: “I am incredibly proud of the Engagement Team and the positive impact the Hybs have had in such a short time. What makes this initiative so special is that the spaces were shaped with our learners – built around what they said they needed to feel supported, confident and able to succeed. The commendation reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every learner feels they belong and can thrive.”

Executive Director, Al Lewis, added: “The Engagement Hybs have reshaped how support looks and feels at the college. The model is responsive, inclusive and places the learner firmly at the centre.”

The commendation acknowledges the innovation, accessibility, and impact of the Hyb model – and highlights the dedication of the Engagement Team who have worked to ensure every learner feels supported, capable, and confident in their next steps.

Congratulations to the Engagement Hyb Team on this well-deserved recognition.