OCN Launches 2026 Learning Endeavour Awards
The OCN Learning Endeavour Awards remain unique in Northern Ireland’s education and learning landscape, bringing together learners from across the entire education and training landscape, including representatives from schools, further education colleges, private training organisations and the community and voluntary sector for a celebratory event that highlights the achievement, dedication and personal growth of learners and their training providers.
“We are delighted to announce details of our Learning Endeavour Awards for 2026,” said OCN Chief Executive Martin Flynn.
“Now in our eighth year, the awards continue to grow in scale and impact, and we are delighted to return to the prestigious Titanic Suite in Titanic Belfast for our annual awards ceremony.
“This iconic venue will once again provide an inspirational backdrop for a day dedicated to celebrating Northern Ireland’s learners and educators. We look forward to welcoming over 300 guests to the event, which will be made up of our shortlisted finalists, their family and friends and special guests."
“Our awards will once again include learning bursaries to highly commended participants, as well as category winners. We would encourage entries from as many eligible learners and training providers so that together we can celebrate the value of vocational education."
OCN is inviting recognised education, learning and training centres from across Northern Ireland to participate in this celebration of educational achievement by submitting nominations for their outstanding learners.
Nomination forms for the OCN 2026 Learning Endeavour Awards are available now via our nominations platform until 4pm on Tuesday 7th April 2026 with the awards ceremony taking place at Titanic Belfast on Tuesday 23rd June 2026.
Martin Flynn concluded: “Our annual Awards ceremony provides a platform to honour the dedication and hard work of individuals who have pursued vocational qualifications through OCN. This event stands as a testament to the transformative power of education in building skills, confidence and opportunities across communities."
The 2026 Learner Award Categories include:
1. Further Education Learner of the Year
2. Schools Learner of the Year
3.Third Sector Learner of the Year
4. Advancing Learning Through Innovation
5. Health & Well-being Learner of the Year
6. Essential Skills Learner of the Year
7. Inspiring Tutor/Teacher of the Year
8. Provider of the Year
9. Traineeship/Apprenticeship Learner of the Year
