Hull College

Rising Tides, Rising Minds: Hull’s Green Education Revolution

Hull College's "Rising Tides, Rising Minds" initiative is a transformative educational programme dedicated to sustainability and renewable energy in the flood-prone Humber region. As one of the UK's highest-risk areas for climate-related flooding, Hull faces unique environmental challenges.

To date, this project has equipped over 2,651 students and 200 staff with critical skills in sustainability and renewables, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. Through bespoke courses and collaborations with over 100 leading businesses, Hull College prepares its community to combat climate change and drive industrial decarbonisation.

By addressing the urgent need for sustainable education in a high-risk area, Hull College has helped mitigate local climate threats and set a benchmark for other institutions who aspire to embody resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a greener future with limited resources.

What the Judges Thought

This project highlights a great outreach activity, led by the college, with a wide (and growing) web of engagement. There are clear long term benefits for the local area, upskilling local people, linking to industry, and making environmental issues a mainstream concern at the college. The approach could be applied to other locations facing similar risks of flooding.

What it Means to Win

Winning this Green Gown Award means everything for Hull College and our community. Our region is the single largest carbon producer in the UK. Our college and our communities are at the frontline of climate change impacts. It highlights our commitment to preparing the local workforce for green jobs, attracting essential inward investment, and supporting our businesses in their transition to sustainability.

Every day is an opportunity to make a difference, we take that responsibility seriously – for our city, our region and our future."

Debra Gray MBE, Principal and CEO

Top 3 Learnings

1. We achieved more than we imagined with creativity and minimal resources.
2. Industry partnerships made our curriculum cutting-edge and boosted student employability.
3. Community projects brought sustainability to life and inspired real change in an area vulnerable to climate change.