Bolton College Badge Framework
Bolton College Badge Framework
Introduction
Bolton College recognises and rewards team members and learners through a structured badge recognition system. Badges are awarded in dual-format recognition: digital badges for online portfolios and physical badges for in-person celebration and display. This framework outlines the criteria for awarding badges aligned to the College’s strategic values and special awards for exceptional contributions.
Nomination and Awarding Process
Team members and learners may be nominated for badges by peers, teachers, or managers. Nominations should include evidence of how the individual has demonstrated the specific value or achievement. Nominations will be assessed based on the criteria outlined in this guide. The Principal’s Award will be reviewed and approved by the Principal and Senior Leadership Team. Nominations for categories below will be judged by the Executive Director of Strategy and Growth.
Collaborative
Create environments where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and empowered.
Inspire others through bold thinking and goal-setting.
Work effectively with others to achieve shared goals.
Strive for high standards in learning, teaching, or service.
Evidence of inclusive practice in group work, teaching, or peer support.
Demonstrate ambition through personal targets, innovation, or leadership.
Peer feedback, reflective journal, tutor observation.
Digital + Physical Badge
Goal tracking, innovation showcase, mentor feedback.
Digital + Physical Badge
Additional Recognition Awards
In addition to the core values badges, Bolton College recognises outstanding commitment and contribution through two special awards. Nominations are reviewed and awarded by the Principal.
• The Star Award: Presented to learners and team members for notable achievements including, for instance, achieving 100% attendance across a defined period. This badge celebrates reliability, commitment, and personal responsibility.
• The Principal’s Award: A prestigious badge awarded to team members or learners who demonstrate exceptional contribution to the College community. This may include leadership, innovation, or impact beyond expectations. Value Learning Outcome Assessment Criteria Assessment Method Badge Format
Star Award Presented to learners and team members for notable achievement including, for instance, achieving 100% attendance
Eg: Achieve 100% attendance over the designated period.
Attendance records verified by internal systems. Digital + Physical Badge
Principal’s Award Exemplify outstanding contribution Evidence of leadership, innovation, or Nomination submitted by team members or Prestigious Digital + Physical
Bolton College Badge Framework
World Ready Skills Badge Focus
Bolton College is committed to equipping learners with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape. As part of this commitment, the College has embedded the development and recognition of World Ready Skills into its tutorial programme. These skills reflect the top global competencies identified by international education and employment bodies, and are essential for success in modern workplaces and communities.
Tutorials will explicitly focus on developing and recognising achievement in the following Top 5 Global World Ready Skills:
• Analytical Thinking - The ability to assess information, identify patterns, and make reasoned decisions.
• Creative Thinking - Generating innovative ideas, solutions, and approaches to challenges.
• Resilience, Flexibility, and Agility - Adapting to change, managing uncertainty, and recovering from setbacks.
• Motivation and Self-Awareness - Taking initiative, setting goals, and understanding personal strengths and areas for growth.
• Curiosity and Lifelong Learning - Demonstrating a desire to explore, ask questions, and continuously improve.
Learners will receive a World Ready badge aligned to their programme level:
• Bronze World Ready – awarded at Level 1
• Silver World Ready – awarded at Level 2
• Gold World Ready – awarded at Level 3
In addition to these overall World Ready badges, learners can also earn individual badges for each of the five World Ready skills as they demonstrate and evidence their development in these areas throughout the year.
These badges are awarded through tutorial activities and are separate from the formal nomination process. While nominations celebrate exceptional contributions, tutorial-based badges provide ongoing recognition of learners’ progress and engagement with these essential global skills. This dual approach ensures that achievement is acknowledged both in everyday learning and through formal celebration.
Conclusion
We encourage all members of the Bolton College community to actively participate in the badge recognition system, submit nominations, and celebrate the individuals who make a meaningful difference. Together, we build a future-ready, values-led learning environment.
Part of the University of Greater Manchester Group