The 2026 Mercury Prize returned to the city for a spectacular night last week and Newcastle College students played a key role behind the scenes at the event, putting their creative, culinary and hospitality skills into practice to support the prestigious music award ceremony at the Utilita Arena Newcastle.
The Mandela Collective - Newcastle College’s in-house agency for Art, Design and Digital Art degree students - showed off their exceptional design skills, partnering with Creative Heritage Studios CIC led by Director, Corinne Lewis-Ward, on a special commemorative pin badge. The project was commissioned by Creative Central NCL, Newcastle College and Newcastle City Council and saw the bespoke pin badges designed specifically for the 2026 Mercury Prize short-listed artists and VIPs.
The project brought students together to create a unique design on each badge for recipients, which were then revealed at the launch opening of Mercury Prize Fringe and were gifted at the final award ceremony.
Director of Creative Heritage Studios CIC, Corinne Lewis-Ward, said: “It was 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 gave them the opportunity to bring their creativity and 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 developed together and loved seeing the gifts presented to 2026 Albums of the Year short-listed artists who performed on the night and VIPs.”
The design collaboration offered 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 contributed 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 also created the starter for the awards dinner, as well as supporting with the main courses and desserts for guests.
Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College, said: “The Mercury Prize is a massive event in British music, and Newcastle College students delivered it. The College's Mandela Collective created bespoke gifts for nominees and VIPs; our trainee chefs prepared food for the evening, and everyone was welcomed by our events students. Each student shone and showed their talent and 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 and the edge to thrive in industry. At Newcastle College, students don't just watch professionals at work; they work with them, co-create and make their mark.
“The Mercury Prize was an incredible occasion and what an unforgettable evening for students.”
Travel and Tourism students welcomed guests and supported with meet and greets throughout the awards night, supported by Chef's Academy students who assisted with front of house duties on the night.
General Manager at Utilita Arena Newcastle, Caroline James, said: “The 2026 Mercury Prize was a huge moment for Newcastle and it was great to see local talent playing a huge part in bringing the event to life. We’re delighted to have worked with the students and give them the opportunity to showcase their skills and talent. For us it was more than simply playing host to the major event, it was about creating opportunities for the next generation and celebrating the people who make our city so special.”
From the kitchens to the guest experience and 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 and cultural scene.