RNCM celebrates big win at ENAs

We’re thrilled to share that the RNCM has scooped the special award for ‘Outstanding School, College or University’ at the annual Educate North Awards (ENAs), beating 500 institutions from across the north of England to win the coveted category.

The RNCM, placed No 5 in the world for music in the 2024 and 2025 QS World University Rankings, was also shortlisted for a second award in the Sustainable Green Initiative category for The Future is Green – a special programme of events themed around climate change and inspired by our ongoing work to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint.

RNCM Principal, Professor Linda Merrick CBE, with ITV’s Ranvir Singh.

Professor Linda Merrick CBE, Principal, accepted the award at a glittering ceremony at the Hilton Hotel on Thursday night (3 April). Speaking about the honour, she said: ‘To win this award means so much to everyone who works and studies at the RNCM. We are one of the top five conservatoires in the world and proud to be based right here in the North West.

‘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.’ 

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.’

The ENAs recognise and celebrate world class achievements across the University, Higher Education (HE), Further Education (FE), and Sixth Form sectors throughout the north of England. Established in 2015, the awards are run in collaboration with Heart Yorkshire, Smooth North West, and Smooth North East.

4 April 2025