The prize, which forms part of the UK Honours system, recognises the impact of LBU’s Educational Alliance with HMP Full Sutton (LEAF) led by the two LBU criminologists. It celebrates their project’s pathbreaking and innovative approach to prison education and its clear benefit to society.

Bill and Alex attended the ceremony with some former students. Rachel Greene studied a degree in Criminology with Psychology and then a Master’s in Criminology and was taught by both Bill and Alex: “The best part of my university experience was being accepted onto the Learning Together course. We used to go to Full Sutton prison every other Tuesday and I loved it. The most important part about the whole experience was the integration between the students from Leeds Beckett and the students within Full Sutton. As soon as we entered the classroom, we were all equal. We were there for the same purpose. We supported each other. I found it so special. Once the course had ended, I was extremely gutted. However, I was invited back to be a peer mentor, which was so exciting and I was honoured to be asked. This module will always have a special place in my heart. I am so honoured and grateful to have been a part of it.”

She is delighted that Bill and Alex have received the award for Leeds Beckett: “I am so lucky to have met Bill and Alex. They have both encouraged and supported me through difficult times, academically and in my personal life. I am so proud of them for achieving this award, they truly deserve it! They both work so hard and they have also made the Learning Together Course one to remember. It was not just a course; it was a privilege. That’s why I am extremely honoured to be invited to witness them receive this award. I can’t think of two more deserving people.” 

LEAF, based in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivers inclusive higher education at HMP Full Sutton, a long-term high-security men’s prison. The programme supports learners to gain recognised qualifications through targeted study that improves future opportunities.

Combining trauma-informed teaching with social justice and higher education practice, LEAF creates a supportive and stable learning environment for people who may have experienced disrupted education or limited support. The programme focuses on strong staff–learner relationships, consistent teaching and inclusive, student-led learning.

Dr Bill Davies, Reader in Teaching and Learning at Leeds Beckett University and Co-Director of LEAF, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education, which recognises the dedication and collaboration at the heart of the LEAF partnership. The award reflects the commitment of students from both Leeds Beckett and HMP Full Sutton, whose enthusiasm for learning and willingness to embrace education in a unique setting have made this work possible. We are thankful to everyone involved in supporting this shared learning community and look forward to continuing to widen access to meaningful educational opportunities for those who can benefit most.”

Dr Alexandria Bradley said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that our educational alliance with HMP Full Sutton has received this prestigious award. Positive educational experiences are inspiring, they increase confidence and they start to open the door to real personal growth. When we, as a society, prioritise education in prisons, we invest in people’s potential and in stronger communities. It has been wonderful to see our alumni flourish through their experiences and use them to help others involved within the Criminal Legal System.”

Feedback from partners at HMP Full Sutton used as part of LBU’s submission for the prize attested to the importance of the work: “The impact of this over the years is huge. On the back of these courses, we saw an increase in engagement in education. It has challenged preconceptions and changed behaviours and attitudes. In some ways this led to a more profound change than achieving the qualifications for some.”

For Leeds Beckett, the award reflects the outstanding contribution of Dr Davies and Dr Bradley and the university’s mission to advance social justice through education and research.

Professor Peter Slee, Leeds Beckett University Vice Chancellor, who accompanied Bill and Alex today along with Chancellor Sir Bob Murray and Chair of the Board of Governors Iain Cornish, said: “This national recognition highlights the outstanding collaboration between our colleagues and partners at HMP Full Sutton. The LEAF partnership demonstrates the powerful impact that innovative teaching and strong partnerships can have in transforming lives and supporting communities. I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Dr Bill Davies and Dr Alexandria Bradley for their leadership in delivering this pioneering and sector-leading work.”

The recognition affirms Leeds Beckett University’s leadership in educational innovation and community engagement. It celebrates a project that has changed lives, challenged inequality and shown the transformative potential of education in restricted environments.

Sir Bob Murray CBE, Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University, said: “Education changed my own life, and I have been a lifelong advocate of its power to change lives and strengthen communities. For that reason, I am immensely proud to see Leeds Beckett University recognised in this way.

It is a privilege to serve as Chancellor and to work alongside Bill, Alex and their colleagues, whose commitment and dedication have made this honour possible. This recognition is richly deserved.”

Find out more about LEAF and the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education and studying Criminology at Leeds Beckett.