On Thursday 12 March, the City & Guilds Foundation was proud to take part in the annual Livery Prize Company Ceremony at Mansion House which also celebrated the CGLI Membership Awards and the Livery Master Certificate Scheme; all of these awards recognising outstanding tutors, trainers, apprentices and craftspeople from across the UK and Ireland.
The event, hosted by The Rt Hon. The Lady Mayor, Dame Susan Langley DBE, highlighted the enduring partnership between the City of London Livery Companies and the City and Guilds of London Institute (CGLI), now known as the City & Guilds Foundation, whose historic relationship dates back to 1878 when sixteen Livery Companies founded the Institute to improve access to technical education. The support from these Guilds continues to be instrumental in supporting people with the skills needed for sustainable employment. Speaking about the importance of skills, The Rt Hon. The Lady Mayor, Dame Susan Langley said: “For centuries the Livery companies have helped pass vital skills from one generation to the next. Today’s recipients represent the very best of that tradition – talented people whose dedication to their craft is strengthening key industries and opening doors for the next generation. At a time of growing skills shortages, investing in technical education and apprenticeships has never been more important.”
The ceremony honoured individuals who have demonstrated exceptional impact through skills development, learning and leadership. The City & Guilds Foundation continues to advance these values by promoting opportunities for people facing barriers to training and by championing the transformative power of skills. Speaking about the importance of celebrating those who champion skills, Mike Adamson CBE, Interim Chief Executive at City & Guilds Foundation said: “Skills change lives. We are proud to celebrate excellence through our various Award programmes and know how vital it is to highlight those who are continuously striving for quality skills development that drives productivity. Congratulations to all of those who have had their achievements recognised. We hope all the exceptional individuals recognised will continue to be powerful advocates for skills and productivity, and the impact they bring to individuals, organisations and wider society as a whole.”
The ceremony showcased the very best of skills development across sectors, from heritage crafts and engineering to education, digital industries, hospitality, and health. 12 individuals were awarded a prestigious Livery Prize, with 14 individuals recognised through the MCGI Membership Awards. Amongst them was Paul Mercer, Principal Lecturer at South Easter Regional College who since joining in 2015 transformed hospitality education through project‑based learning, giving students real catering experience, including delivering five‑course meals for paying customers. His department now leads the college with 94.8% attainment and 98.1% retention. In addition to his Membership Award, Paul was also awarded a Livery Prize from The Worshipful Company of Cooks.
The Foundation’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to fostering excellence, advocating for inclusive skills pathways, and championing those who deliver life‑changing training and learning across the UK. Awarded by the Foundation are Fellowship Diplomas, the highest honour conferred by CGLI Council. Five individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to education and training were awarded at the ceremony including Professor Anne Bamford, a former Strategic Director of Education, Culture and Skills for City of London and UNESCO Scholar. Speaking about her Fellowship Diploma, Professor Anne Bamford OBE said: “I am delighted and honoured to receive Fellowship from an organisation that has a long and distinguished history of championing skills development and creating inclusive opportunities for people to learn, work and contribute meaningfully to society. Creative education is central to this vision because it opens doors by helping people discover their talents and develop the confidence and capabilities needed to thrive. As we look to the future, fusion skills that combine human creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration with technological capability will be increasingly important. I am proud to be part of a community that recognises the enduring value of skills, creativity, and opportunity.”
