As the first non-denominational teacher training college for women, Edge Hill was founded as an institution which broke traditional barriers for women and promoting women’s rights. Our university colours and graduation gowns still proudly display the colours of the suffrage movement. We’ve come a long way since 1885, but even after decades of campaign, Women in STEM and Women in Leadership remains an important issue to tackle. Our commitment to EDI extends beyond gender equality promoting a diverse and inclusive culture that enriches the Edge Hill community. Our efforts to create and sustain a safe and fair community are recognised by external accolades such as Athena Swan, Care Experience and Estranged Students and Disability Confident.
Our significant success in achieving our mission has been recognised with awards and high rankings for teaching, student experience, research and more. Edge Hill was named Modern University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 and University of the Year at the Educate North Awards 2020/21. Most recently we were placed top four in the North West in the Complete University Guide 2025.
The University has also achieved Gold for Student Experience in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023, Silver for Student Outcomes and Silver Overall, and been and graded ‘Outstanding’ across its entire teacher training provision.