With the 2026 Mercury Prize returning to Newcastle upon Tyne for a second year at the Utilita Arena Newcastle on Thursday 22 October, Newcastle College students will be playing a key role behind the scenes, putting their creative, culinary & hospitality skills into practice to support one of the UK & Ireland’s most prestigious music award ceremonies.
Creativity is at the heart of the Arts Prize & The Mandela Collective (Newcastle College’s in-house agency for Art, Design & Digital Art degree students) have supported with the preparations through their exceptional design skills. Commissioned by Creative Central NCL, Newcastle College & Newcastle City Council & working with Creative Heritage Studios CIC led by Director, Corinne Lewis-Ward, the partnership has designed bespoke pin badges for the 2026 Mercury Prize shortlisted artists & VIPs.
The project has brought students together to create a unique design on each badge for recipients. The designs of the badges were revealed at the Mercury Prize Fringe Event launch on Thursday 15 October & will be gifted to award nominees & VIPs at the final award ceremony on Thursday 22 October.
Corinne Lewis-Ward (Director of Creative Heritage Studios CIC) said: “It’s been fantastic to work with the students from Newcastle College’s Mandela Collective to co-create something so special for the 2026 Mercury Prize. The project has given them the opportunity to bring their creativity & ideas to a brilliant event, while experiencing what it’s like to collaborate on a live design brief. I’m really proud of what we’ve developed together & look forward to seeing the gifts presented to 2026 Albums of the Year shortlisted artists who will be performing on the night & VIPs.”
The design collaboration offers a glimpse into the wide-ranging work that goes into delivering a huge live event, while giving students the unique opportunity to work on real-world projects alongside some of the region’s most creative professionals, gaining experience in a high-profile, prestigious setting in the heart of the city.
Additionally, students from the Newcastle College Chef’s Academy will be contributing to the event, preparing food for crews at the venue throughout the week leading up to the event. The elite team of chefs at the College’s Canteen Club will also be creating the starter for the awards dinner, as well as supporting with the main courses & desserts for guests.
Jon Ridley (Principal of Newcastle College) said: “The Mercury Prize is a massive event in British music & for Newcastle College students who are helping to deliver it. The College’s Mandela Collective has created bespoke gifts for nominees & VIPs, our trainee chefs are preparing food for the evening & everyone will be welcomed by our events students. Each student will shine & show their talent & expertise on the national stage.”
“Nurturing bright minds is what Newcastle College is about. We develop talent for the region, equipping students with knowledge, skills & the edge to thrive in industry. At Newcastle College, students don’t just watch professionals at work; they work with them, co-create & make their mark.”
“The Mercury Prize is an incredible occasion. I am sure the students will have an unforgettable evening.”
Travel & Tourism students will be welcoming guests & supporting with meet & greets throughout the awards night, supported by Chef’s Academy students who will also be assisting with front of house duties on the night.
Caroline James (General Manager at Utilita Arena Newcastle) said: “The 2026 Mercury Prize is a huge moment for Newcastle & it’s great to see local talent playing a huge part in bringing the event to life. We’re delighted to be working with the students & giving them the opportunity to showcase their skills & talent. For us, it’s more than simply playing host to the major event, it’s about creating opportunities for the next generation & celebrating the people who make our city so special.”
“From the kitchens to the guest experience & the design of bespoke gifts, the involvement of Newcastle College students alongside skilled experts showcases the breadth of talent contributing to Newcastle’s ever-growing creative & cultural scene.”
Want to know more?
Newcastle College teaches more than 12,000 students each year from its city centre Rye Hill Campus & academies in Gateshead, North Tyneside & at Newcastle International Airport. It offers a wide range of full-time & part-time courses, apprenticeships, employer training & professional qualifications. It also develops & awards its own Honours & Masters Degrees, delivered through Newcastle College University Centre. Find out more www.ncl-coll.ac.uk
Creative Heritage Studios CIC is a catalyst for creative innovation. Offering tailored creative consultancy & business training, their focus is on harmonising cultural & commercial activities for maximum impact. Their comprehensive services empower clients with valuable knowledge & research data, aiding informed decisions for future-proofing cultural development. With a specific interest in leveraging expertise for economic development, they recognise the integral role of culture in shaping thriving & sustainable communities in the North East / North of England & beyond. Find out more at www.creativeheritagestudios.co.uk & Follow them on Instagram at @creativeheritagestudios
In addition to the main Mercury Prize 2026 awards event on Thursday 22 October, Newcastle upon Tyne will play host to a range of fringe events showcasing established, new & emerging artists from across the North East of England (& beyond) that will take place in multiple venues across the city between 16-22 October. Find out more at https://generator.org.uk/mercuryprizefringe