London Metropolitan University has earned national recognition after winning the Authentic Assessment for Employability category at the prestigious Graduate Futures Institute’s Academic Employability Awards 2026.
The award celebrates the university’s outstanding commitment to embedding employability directly into teaching and assessment, ensuring students graduate with the practical skills, industry exposure, and professional confidence needed to succeed in competitive career environments.
The winning initiative highlighted the innovative Journalism curriculum led by Dr Wendy Sloane, Deputy Dean for the School of Computing and Digital Media. The programme places students in immersive newsroom environments where they engage in live editorial roles, mock interviews, portfolio development, and production journals designed to replicate real industry experiences.
Students also gain valuable publishing experience through Holloway Express and benefit from work placements supported by the London Met Journalism Diversity Network. By combining authentic industry practice with inclusive teaching approaches that address representation and structural inequalities within journalism, the programme has significantly enhanced student confidence, satisfaction, retention, and graduate outcomes.
Speaking about the achievement, Dr Wendy Sloane said:
“We are immensely proud to receive this award, which recognises the innovative work developed through our Newsroom Production modules and wider employability initiatives. Through authentic assessments, live industry projects and opportunities such as Holloway Express and the London Met Journalism Diversity Network, we are preparing students to excel in the highly competitive world of journalism and beyond.”
Alexandra Banks, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Success), described the award as a testament to the university’s strong commitment to career-focused education.
“Winning this national award is an incredible achievement for London Met and reflects the dedication of our academic and professional services colleagues who work tirelessly to ensure our students are career-ready from day one. At London Met, employability is embedded throughout the student journey, equipping students with the confidence, skills and real-world experience they need to succeed.”
The Academic Employability Awards recognise universities that excel in integrating employability into curriculum design, teaching, and assessment. London Met’s latest achievement further strengthens its reputation as a university where employability is built into every stage of the student experience.
This recognition also reinforces London Metropolitan University’s ongoing commitment to social mobility, inclusive education, and graduate success, creating transformative opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds while preparing them for the future world of work.
Source: Adapted from an article published by London Metropolitan University.