19 June 2025
UK Career Development Awards 2025: A Night of Inspiration
UK CAREER DEVELOPMENT AWARDS 2025 SPONSORED BY SKY: Celebrating the Visionaries Shaping Britain's Workforce
London - Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - The UK Career Development Awards 2025, sponsored by Sky, culminated last night in a glamourous celebration at the Royal National Hotel in London. Organised by the Career Development Institute (CDI), the UK’s professional body for career development, this ceremony honoured the vital role of career development professionals in helping young people and adults shape their futures, driving social mobility, and contributing significantly to economic growth across Britain.
The evening underpinned the messages of the CDI’s #ValuingCareers campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at highlighting the crucial role of career development in shaping Britain's future workforce. As the job market rapidly evolves, the need for expert advice in navigating education, training and career paths has never been more critical.
David Morgan, chief executive of the CDI, emphasised the impact of the professionals being celebrated. "Careers advisers have an unparalleled opportunity to transform lives—whether by guiding young people during their education or supporting adults through public services and private consultations. Their work not only impacts individuals but also strengthens society and fuels the economy, making them essential architects of a brighter future for all," he said.
"This year's winners represent the very best of our profession, showcasing exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact across diverse settings. Their contributions are fundamental to empowering individuals and building a skilled, adaptable workforce for the future."
As one of Europe’s leading broadcasters shaping the media landscape, Sky - through its Sky Up Academy Studios - champions the next generation of creative talent by giving young people hands-on experience with the tools and skills that power the industry.
Nishy Lall, Group Head of Youth & Social Impact at Sky , said:
"At Sky Up Academy Studios, we’re all about igniting that first spark—getting young people excited about media and tech. But it’s the incredible careers professionals, like the ones we’re celebrating tonight, who take that spark and help turn it into something real. They’re the ones building the bridge between inspiration and a future career. That’s why we’re so proud to be partnering with the CDI for these awards—because this is about recognising the people who help others realise their potential and thrive in the UK’s creative digital industries."
A sneak peek of event photographs is available here.
Highlights from the 2025 Awards
This year’s awards saw remarkable achievements across various categories, with several winners standing out for their transformative contributions.
Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award:
Highly respected careers education consultant, Janet Colledge, director of careers consultancy, Outstanding Careers, was awarded the Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award. Throughout her career, Janet has significantly shaped careers education, particularly for 11-18-year-olds. Her work includes consulting with schools to meet the Gatsby Benchmarks, delivering professional development for educators, and authoring influential publications. Her dedication has led to elevated standards in careers education and empowered countless students to pursue ambitious career paths.
Contribution to the development of the profession:
Danny Mirza, Head of Talent at Coventry University London, secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Contribution to the development of the profession'. He was celebrated for his groundbreaking integration of AI into core career development practices. Danny implements AI tools to streamline administrative tasks - from report generation to drafting communications - enabling greater focus on direct human interaction, and his methods empower both professionals and students. Danny’s pioneering approach ensures AI serves career professionals, setting a new benchmark for technological adoption. His contribution is vital in equipping the next generation of career development professionals to navigate today's complex, digitally driven job market.
Careers Programme - Non-Education Settings:
CXK Prisons IAG & Employability Service: A Path to Reintegration
CXK's Prisons Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) & Employability Service secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Careers Programme - Non-Education Settings'. This programme operates across 10 prisons in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex, providing crucial career advice and employability training to over 10,000 prisoners. CXK's holistic approach, including personalised IAG and 'Through-the-Gate' support, has led to significant results, with 1,250 prisoners securing employment or further training within six months of release in 2024. The service boasts a 99% satisfaction rate among participants and contributes directly to reducing reoffending rates, offering a clear path to successful social reintegration.
Looking Ahead: National Careers Leaders’ Conference 2025
Building on the momentum of the Awards, the CDI is also hosting the National Careers Leaders’ Conference 2025 on June 18th. This conference will further explore the critical issues and opportunities facing career development professionals today.
The CDI, which sets standards for professional practice through the CDI Code of Ethics and the UK Register of Career Development Professionals, both recognised by the government, continues to champion the profession and support its members in working to the highest standards.
Full List of UK Career Development Award 2025 Winners:
Careers Programme - Education Settings:
Ideas4Careers: Driving Career Success in Ashfield's Schools
Ideas4Careers won the UK Career Development Award for 'Careers Programme - Education Settings'. Its 'Aspiring Careers Ashfield' project, in partnership with Ashfield District Council, supports young people in a former mining area by enhancing career guidance in schools. The initiative significantly improved school-business relationships, increased student participation in work placements from 63% to 95%, and integrated career education more effectively, particularly for SEND learners, all while empowering schools to achieve and sustain Gatsby Benchmarks. The project's success is marked by increased student aspirations and a substantial rise in career-related activities, ensuring young people in Ashfield are better prepared for their futures.
Innovative product, resource or technology:
The Careers Newsletter by The Careers People
The Careers People has won the UK Career Development Award for 'Innovative product, resource or technology' with The Careers Newsletter which has transformed careers information delivery across 158 subscribing schools nationwide. It collates vital, vetted information from employers and universities, featuring sections like 'Job of the Week' and 'Employer Spotlight'. Its key innovation is its AI-powered podcast feature, which makes content accessible to auditory learners, students with SEND, and those with EAL, ensuring inclusive careers education for all.
Career Development Professional Working in Education Settings:
Ladi Mohammed: Expanding Global Horizons in Education
Ladi Mohammed, founder and CEO of Global Educational Travel & Tours CIC, won the UK Career Development Award for 'Career development professional working in education settings'. Ladi’s work focuses on creating accessible international educational and career opportunities for young people. Through immersive study tours and global career workshops, her programmes aim to broaden students' perspectives and enhance their employability skills. The initiative has successfully fostered global awareness and career confidence in over 95% of participants, with many identifying new career aspirations directly linked to their international experiences.
Career Development Professional Working in Non-Education Settings:
Bethan Williams: Empowering Neurodivergent Adults into Employment
Bethan Williams, a Careers Adviser at Working Wales (Careers Wales), gained the UK Career Development Award for 'Career development professional working in non-education settings'. Bethan was recognised for her exceptional dedication to helping neurodivergent adults secure sustainable employment. Her empathetic and innovative approach, which includes connecting clients with vital support services and designing bespoke career plans, yielded impressive results. In the last financial year, she achieved 43 job outcomes from 137 customers, significantly higher than the average, demonstrating her profound impact on individual lives and local employment rates.
Careers provider of the year:
Career Connect: A Leader in UK Career Services
Career Connect was named 'Careers provider of the year' at the UK Career Development Awards. This accolade acknowledges its extensive reach and profound impact across young people, justice services, schools, colleges, and training and development. Its client-centred approach combines personalised guidance with digital innovation. A key achievement includes their Justice Sector work, where employment rates for participants were almost 1.7 times the national average within six weeks post-release. Career Connect's commitment to research and strategic partnerships cements their position as a leading force in career development.
Innovative product, resource or technology:
The Careers Newsletter by The Careers People
The Careers People has won the UK Career Development Award for 'Innovative product, resource or technology' with The Careers Newsletter which has transformed careers information delivery across 158 subscribing schools nationwide. It collates vital, vetted information from employers and universities, featuring sections like 'Job of the Week' and 'Employer Spotlight'. Its key innovation is its AI-powered podcast feature, which makes content accessible to auditory learners, students with SEND, and those with EAL, ensuring inclusive careers education for all.
Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award:
Highly respected careers education consultant, Janet Colledge, director of careers consultancy, Outstanding Careers, was awarded the Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award. Throughout her career, Janet has significantly shaped careers education, particularly for 11-18-year-olds. Her work includes consulting with schools to meet Gatsby Benchmarks, delivering professional development for educators, and authoring influential publications. Her dedication has led to elevated standards in careers provision and empowered countless students to pursue ambitious career paths.
Contribution to the development of the profession:
Danny Mirza, Head of Talent at Coventry University London, secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Contribution to the development of the profession'. He was celebrated for his groundbreaking integration of AI into core career development practices. Danny implements AI tools to streamline administrative tasks - from report generation to drafting communications - enabling greater focus on direct human interaction, and his methods empower both professionals and students. Danny’s pioneering approach ensures AI serves career professionals, setting a new benchmark for technological adoption. His contribution is vital in equipping the next generation of career development professionals to navigate today's complex, digitally driven job market.
CDI Fellowship Award
Janet Hutchinson: Decades of Dedication to Career Development
Janet Hutchinson has been granted a prestigious CDI Fellowship Award for her significant and sustained contributions to the career development profession over more than three decades. Recognised for her exemplary leadership and innovation, Janet has held senior roles in university career services and contributed to national policymaking. Her work has consistently aimed at enhancing professional standards and fostering the next generation of career development professionals through mentorship and training.Monica Lemecha and Michele Squire were also awarded the CDI Fellowship Award for their dedication to the career development profession.
London - Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - The UK Career Development Awards 2025, sponsored by Sky, culminated last night in a glamourous celebration at the Royal National Hotel in London. Organised by the Career Development Institute (CDI), the UK’s professional body for career development, this ceremony honoured the vital role of career development professionals in helping young people and adults shape their futures, driving social mobility, and contributing significantly to economic growth across Britain.
The evening underpinned the messages of the CDI’s #ValuingCareers campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at highlighting the crucial role of career development in shaping Britain's future workforce. As the job market rapidly evolves, the need for expert advice in navigating education, training and career paths has never been more critical.
David Morgan, chief executive of the CDI, emphasised the impact of the professionals being celebrated. "Careers advisers have an unparalleled opportunity to transform lives—whether by guiding young people during their education or supporting adults through public services and private consultations. Their work not only impacts individuals but also strengthens society and fuels the economy, making them essential architects of a brighter future for all," he said.
"This year's winners represent the very best of our profession, showcasing exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact across diverse settings. Their contributions are fundamental to empowering individuals and building a skilled, adaptable workforce for the future."
As one of Europe’s leading broadcasters shaping the media landscape, Sky - through its Sky Up Academy Studios - champions the next generation of creative talent by giving young people hands-on experience with the tools and skills that power the industry.
Nishy Lall, Group Head of Youth & Social Impact at Sky , said:
"At Sky Up Academy Studios, we’re all about igniting that first spark—getting young people excited about media and tech. But it’s the incredible careers professionals, like the ones we’re celebrating tonight, who take that spark and help turn it into something real. They’re the ones building the bridge between inspiration and a future career. That’s why we’re so proud to be partnering with the CDI for these awards—because this is about recognising the people who help others realise their potential and thrive in the UK’s creative digital industries."
A sneak peek of event photographs is available here.
Highlights from the 2025 Awards
This year’s awards saw remarkable achievements across various categories, with several winners standing out for their transformative contributions.
Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award:
Highly respected careers education consultant, Janet Colledge, director of careers consultancy, Outstanding Careers, was awarded the Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award. Throughout her career, Janet has significantly shaped careers education, particularly for 11-18-year-olds. Her work includes consulting with schools to meet the Gatsby Benchmarks, delivering professional development for educators, and authoring influential publications. Her dedication has led to elevated standards in careers education and empowered countless students to pursue ambitious career paths.
Contribution to the development of the profession:
Danny Mirza, Head of Talent at Coventry University London, secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Contribution to the development of the profession'. He was celebrated for his groundbreaking integration of AI into core career development practices. Danny implements AI tools to streamline administrative tasks - from report generation to drafting communications - enabling greater focus on direct human interaction, and his methods empower both professionals and students. Danny’s pioneering approach ensures AI serves career professionals, setting a new benchmark for technological adoption. His contribution is vital in equipping the next generation of career development professionals to navigate today's complex, digitally driven job market.
Careers Programme - Non-Education Settings:
CXK Prisons IAG & Employability Service: A Path to Reintegration
CXK's Prisons Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) & Employability Service secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Careers Programme - Non-Education Settings'. This programme operates across 10 prisons in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex, providing crucial career advice and employability training to over 10,000 prisoners. CXK's holistic approach, including personalised IAG and 'Through-the-Gate' support, has led to significant results, with 1,250 prisoners securing employment or further training within six months of release in 2024. The service boasts a 99% satisfaction rate among participants and contributes directly to reducing reoffending rates, offering a clear path to successful social reintegration.
Looking Ahead: National Careers Leaders’ Conference 2025
Building on the momentum of the Awards, the CDI is also hosting the National Careers Leaders’ Conference 2025 on June 18th. This conference will further explore the critical issues and opportunities facing career development professionals today.
The CDI, which sets standards for professional practice through the CDI Code of Ethics and the UK Register of Career Development Professionals, both recognised by the government, continues to champion the profession and support its members in working to the highest standards.
Full List of UK Career Development Award 2025 Winners:
Careers Programme - Education Settings:
Ideas4Careers: Driving Career Success in Ashfield's Schools
Ideas4Careers won the UK Career Development Award for 'Careers Programme - Education Settings'. Its 'Aspiring Careers Ashfield' project, in partnership with Ashfield District Council, supports young people in a former mining area by enhancing career guidance in schools. The initiative significantly improved school-business relationships, increased student participation in work placements from 63% to 95%, and integrated career education more effectively, particularly for SEND learners, all while empowering schools to achieve and sustain Gatsby Benchmarks. The project's success is marked by increased student aspirations and a substantial rise in career-related activities, ensuring young people in Ashfield are better prepared for their futures.
Innovative product, resource or technology:
The Careers Newsletter by The Careers People
The Careers People has won the UK Career Development Award for 'Innovative product, resource or technology' with The Careers Newsletter which has transformed careers information delivery across 158 subscribing schools nationwide. It collates vital, vetted information from employers and universities, featuring sections like 'Job of the Week' and 'Employer Spotlight'. Its key innovation is its AI-powered podcast feature, which makes content accessible to auditory learners, students with SEND, and those with EAL, ensuring inclusive careers education for all.
Career Development Professional Working in Education Settings:
Ladi Mohammed: Expanding Global Horizons in Education
Ladi Mohammed, founder and CEO of Global Educational Travel & Tours CIC, won the UK Career Development Award for 'Career development professional working in education settings'. Ladi’s work focuses on creating accessible international educational and career opportunities for young people. Through immersive study tours and global career workshops, her programmes aim to broaden students' perspectives and enhance their employability skills. The initiative has successfully fostered global awareness and career confidence in over 95% of participants, with many identifying new career aspirations directly linked to their international experiences.
Career Development Professional Working in Non-Education Settings:
Bethan Williams: Empowering Neurodivergent Adults into Employment
Bethan Williams, a Careers Adviser at Working Wales (Careers Wales), gained the UK Career Development Award for 'Career development professional working in non-education settings'. Bethan was recognised for her exceptional dedication to helping neurodivergent adults secure sustainable employment. Her empathetic and innovative approach, which includes connecting clients with vital support services and designing bespoke career plans, yielded impressive results. In the last financial year, she achieved 43 job outcomes from 137 customers, significantly higher than the average, demonstrating her profound impact on individual lives and local employment rates.
Careers provider of the year:
Career Connect: A Leader in UK Career Services
Career Connect was named 'Careers provider of the year' at the UK Career Development Awards. This accolade acknowledges its extensive reach and profound impact across young people, justice services, schools, colleges, and training and development. Its client-centred approach combines personalised guidance with digital innovation. A key achievement includes their Justice Sector work, where employment rates for participants were almost 1.7 times the national average within six weeks post-release. Career Connect's commitment to research and strategic partnerships cements their position as a leading force in career development.
Innovative product, resource or technology:
The Careers Newsletter by The Careers People
The Careers People has won the UK Career Development Award for 'Innovative product, resource or technology' with The Careers Newsletter which has transformed careers information delivery across 158 subscribing schools nationwide. It collates vital, vetted information from employers and universities, featuring sections like 'Job of the Week' and 'Employer Spotlight'. Its key innovation is its AI-powered podcast feature, which makes content accessible to auditory learners, students with SEND, and those with EAL, ensuring inclusive careers education for all.
Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award:
Highly respected careers education consultant, Janet Colledge, director of careers consultancy, Outstanding Careers, was awarded the Dr Rodney Cox Lifetime Achievement Award. Throughout her career, Janet has significantly shaped careers education, particularly for 11-18-year-olds. Her work includes consulting with schools to meet Gatsby Benchmarks, delivering professional development for educators, and authoring influential publications. Her dedication has led to elevated standards in careers provision and empowered countless students to pursue ambitious career paths.
Contribution to the development of the profession:
Danny Mirza, Head of Talent at Coventry University London, secured the UK Career Development Award for 'Contribution to the development of the profession'. He was celebrated for his groundbreaking integration of AI into core career development practices. Danny implements AI tools to streamline administrative tasks - from report generation to drafting communications - enabling greater focus on direct human interaction, and his methods empower both professionals and students. Danny’s pioneering approach ensures AI serves career professionals, setting a new benchmark for technological adoption. His contribution is vital in equipping the next generation of career development professionals to navigate today's complex, digitally driven job market.
CDI Fellowship Award
Janet Hutchinson: Decades of Dedication to Career Development
Janet Hutchinson has been granted a prestigious CDI Fellowship Award for her significant and sustained contributions to the career development profession over more than three decades. Recognised for her exemplary leadership and innovation, Janet has held senior roles in university career services and contributed to national policymaking. Her work has consistently aimed at enhancing professional standards and fostering the next generation of career development professionals through mentorship and training.Monica Lemecha and Michele Squire were also awarded the CDI Fellowship Award for their dedication to the career development profession.
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