Oxbridge was amongst the high-profile finalists for the 'Best use of blended learning' category at the Learning Technology Awards in London last week. The Learning Technologies Awards gala evening is a glittering black-tie celebration attracting guests from across the learning and development industry worldwide.

The online college was nominated for their 'Supporting Teaching and Learning Level 3 Certificate', known as 'Classroom Heroes' a teaching assistant qualification that is fully recognised in primary and secondary schools across the UK.

The prestigious awards aim to recognise outstanding performances within the E-Learning sector, inviting household names such as John Lewis, AXA Insurance and KPMG. Although not winners this year, the judges took time out to commend Oxbridge for the passion and innovation presented. Kate Vose of the Learning Technology Awards said that it's highly unusual that non-winners get feedback let alone such high commendation for their outstanding work and contribution.

Founder and CEO of Oxbridge Matt Jones was delighted to have received the external nomination:

"To be recognised alongside a superb array of nominees is testament to the quality of our staff and the quality of our course materials." he explained.

"Today's learner is looking for something extra special and diversification is key to giving them the unexpected, in addition to your main offering," Matt added.

Distance Learning

Distance learning is becoming increasingly popular across the globe. Many of today's learners are seeking an alternative to on-site study. The flexibility of study hours is attracting more and more mature students, who are able to gain further skills and qualifications around full-time employment and family responsibilities. It is estimated that the popularity of distance learning will grow further, as companies and students continue to capitalise on the availability of modern high-quality distance learning courses and qualifications.

Such courses did not exist as little as a decade ago, and for Matt Jones, keeping up with the digital age is the key to success:

"We're proud to be able to provide cutting-edge online learning which would normally take years to develop. In doing so, we are changing E-Learning from the old-fashioned folder and books to a fabulous digital experience," he said.

The Future

The West Midlands-based distance learning provider are looking forward to the Learning Technology Awards next year. An annual event which includes categories such as the 'Best use of mobile learning', 'Best learning game' and 'Best learning platform implementation.'