East Lancashire Learning Group named UK digital transformation leader in CIO 100 Awards

East Lancashire Learning Group (ELLG) has been named as the only further education college in this year's CIO 100 UK Awards.  

The CIO 100 recognises and celebrates the UK’s 100 organisations and their technology teams that are using IT innovatively to create business value through digital transformation and strategic use of technology. 

The achievement places the Group amongst the UK’s national digital transformation leaders and underlines ELLG’s status as one of the most innovative college groups in the country. 

The prestigious list celebrates organisations demonstrating outstanding digital leadership and innovation across all sectors of UK business.

ELLG’s inclusion, alongside Haas Formula One Team, Chelsea Football Club, Starbucks, and Bentley Motors, highlights the Group’s ability to compete and excel at the highest level of digital performance. 

The award recognised ELLG’s collaborative approach to transformation, integrating digital capability across every part of the organisation from curriculum design and estates to management information systems.

In its award submission, ELLG championed the message that “it’s not about the tech, it’s about the team,” demonstrating how collaboration between curriculum, estates, and digital specialists underpins its transformation success.  

Andrew Dewhurst, chief information officer at ELLG, said: “This recognition demonstrates that FE can deliver digital transformation on the same scale and standard as major commercial organisations.

"It’s not about isolated IT projects, it’s about how we embed technology across teaching, operations, and support to create better outcomes for learners, staff, and employers.” 

Judged by an international panel including the CIO of Rolls Royce, the award process benchmarked ELLG against some of the UK’s most digitally advanced companies.

The ceremony, held at The Savoy in London, confirmed ELLG’s place among the nation’s top digital transformation leaders. 

Lisa O’Loughlin, chief executive and principal of ELLG, added: "This is a landmark achievement for the further education sector.

"It proves that FE can lead on digital innovation, not just follow.

"Our success reinforces confidence among employers, partners, and learners that ELLG offers an environment that’s future-focused, agile, and connected to the digital demands of modern industry.” 

For ELLG, the recognition builds long-term strategic value, strengthening its position as a digitally mature and forward-thinking college group driving excellence in skills, learning, and employer collaboration.