-
INTERNATIONAL TRADE
and universities. For international governments, the NCUK ecosystem also supports national agendas in driving skills development at home, reducing brain drain. This results in improvements for both local infrastructure and also the UK’s soft power globally. Students gain preparation, confidence and choice. Study Centres gain quality-assured qualifications and academic infrastructure. University partners gain a diverse pipeline of prepared international students. International “This Award is a recognition of what is possible when education is made genuinely accessible”
NCUK staff welcome partners at the company’s partner conference in China
governments retain talent and can collaborate with leading British universities on campuses in their country. What the King’s Award means to NCUK For NCUK, receiving this award in 2026, during the 60th anniversary year of the scheme represents the highest possible acknowledgement of the organisation’s contribution to UK education exports and its role as a bridge between the UK’s world-class universities and talented students around the world. “This award is a reflection of the trust that thousands of students, Study Centres and university partners have placed in NCUK. It validates the work of everyone across our global network, from the tutors and administrators at our Study Centres to our university partners who share our conviction that the right preparation can unlock a student’s potential. Most importantly, it is a recognition of what is possible when education is made genuinely accessible,” says Stuart Smith, Chief Executive Officer at NCUK. As one of a select group of organisations recognised in the 2026 cohort for International Trade, NCUK stands alongside the best of British enterprise, demonstrating that purpose-driven organisations can also be commercially successful and internationally impactful.
Looking ahead NCUK’s ambitions are fixed on growth, both in the reach of its network and the depth of its impact. New in-country pathway partnerships including the expansion of full in-country delivery options, expanding university relationships and continued investment in the quality of its qualifications are among some of NCUK’s goals, ensuring that NCUK continues to form part of national education infrastructures worldwide, driving success, economic growth and academic integrity internationally. What will not change is the founding principle that has guided NCUK since its inception: that every student, regardless of where they come from, deserves access to a high-quality education and a genuine opportunity to achieve their potential. The King’s Award for Enterprise 2026 is both a celebration of that mission and a commitment to continuing it. NCUK Spaces Peter House, Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 5AN northern-consortium-of-united-kingdom NCUKofficial @ncukofficial @NCUKTogether
Stuart Smith, CEO, NCUK
King’s Awards Magazine 2026
71
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator