Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) Careers Service’s innovative, student-centred approach to employability has been recognised with a national award nomination.

The service has been nominated forthe AGCAS Excellence in Work-Related Learning Award for its work dedicated to embedding work-based learning throughout student journeys.

“Our work-related learning programme combines peer collaboration with strong employer partnerships to create opportunities for our students,” said Noeleen Hammond Jones, Deputy Head of the LUMS Careers, Work Related Learning Team.

“The recognition from the AGCAS award nomination reflects the strength of our collaborative team approach. Our team works incredibly hard to prepare students for real-world experiences through one-to-one support, tailored feedback, and mock interview practice. We are proud that this commitment has been recognised.”

One of the team’s key initiatives is a dedicated placements module for first-year undergraduate students, offering mock interviews and assessment centres.

This year, the placements module has connected students with major global employers such as EDF, HSBC, and Thermo Fisher, delivering more than 319 mock interview slots and hosting 14 assessment centres.

Placement support has grown significantly within LUMS, now reaching more than 350 students annually. Peer-to-peer mentoring between students in different year groups has increased confidence and boosted placement uptake. Combined with a diverse programme of workshops, webinars, and employer-led events, these efforts enrich the overall student experience.

Additionally, the LUMS Careers Projects Team has expanded access to meaningful work-based opportunities, delivering more than150 bespoke projects across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Since 2023, 668 students and more than 160 employer partners, from SMEs to international firms, have taken part in these projects.

These initiatives have resulted in strong graduate outcomes, with 90% of LUMS students progressing into positive destinations after graduation.