NCG has been selected as one of the Association of Colleges' (AoC) new Digital Insight Hubs for 2026/27, recognising its leadership in digital innovation and commitment to supporting transformation across the further education sector.
As one of just seven Digital Insight Hubs nationally, NCG will play a key role in helping colleges accelerate digital adoption, share effective practice and tackle digital inequality through mentoring and sector-wide collaboration.
The AoC's Digital Insight Hub programme brings together colleges that have demonstrated strong progress in digital transformation, creating opportunities for them to share their experiences and provide practical support to peers across the sector.
Following a successful pilot, the programme is expanding this academic year to help more colleges develop the digital skills, culture and infrastructure needed to improve outcomes for learners, support staff development and prepare students for an increasingly digital economy.
NCG joins a network of leading colleges recognised for their commitment to embedding digital innovation and creating inclusive, technology-enabled learning environments.
NCG's Digital Transformation Journey
Over recent years, NCG has invested significantly in its digital capabilities, transforming systems, processes and learning environments across its colleges. From enhancing digital learning and modernising business systems to strengthening data-driven decision making, NCG has placed technology at the heart of its strategy to improve experiences for students and colleagues.
As a Digital Insight Hub, NCG will share the lessons learned through its transformation programme, including the successes, challenges and practical approaches that have helped build a strong digital culture across the organisation.
A key part of this work will be mentoring colleges from across the UK that are at different stages of their own transformation journeys. Through the programme, NCG colleagues will provide one-to-one support, helping peers navigate challenges, develop digital strategies and identify practical actions that can deliver meaningful change.
Hosting a Digital Insight Day
As part of the programme, NCG will host a Digital Insight Day on Tuesday 24 November 2026 at Newcastle College, welcoming colleagues from across the sector to explore its approach to digital transformation.
The event will provide an opportunity for delegates to hear first-hand about NCG's digital journey, learn from examples of effective practice, and engage in open discussions about the opportunities and challenges facing colleges as they develop their digital capabilities.
The day will showcase how digital innovation can support teaching, learning and student success, while highlighting the importance of developing staff confidence, strengthening digital leadership and ensuring all learners have the opportunity to build the digital skills increasingly required in the modern workplace.
Scott Mulholland, Chief Information, Data and Estates Officer at NCG, said: "We are delighted to have been selected as an AoC Digital Insight Hub and to be recognised for the progress we have made in our own digital transformation programme.
"Digital transformation is about much more than technology. It is about empowering our colleagues, enriching the student experience and creating opportunities for every learner to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
"As a college group with social mobility at its heart, we know that access to digital skills can play a significant role in opening doors to education, employment and career progression. By embedding digital innovation across our colleges, we are helping ensure students are prepared for the jobs of the future and able to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
"We know that every organisation's experience is different, but there is huge value in sharing knowledge, learning from one another and working collaboratively. We look forward to supporting colleges across the sector through mentoring and welcoming colleagues to NCG for our Digital Insight Day later this year."
By sharing knowledge, building networks and supporting peers, NCG's involvement in the Digital Insight Hub programme reinforces its commitment to shaping the future of further education, tackling digital inequality and ensuring learners from all backgrounds can develop the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing workforce.