Newcastle College students will play a key role behind the scenes at the 2026 Mercury Prize, which returns to Utilita Arena Newcastle for a second year next week. Students will be putting their creative, culinary and hospitality skills into practice to support one of the UK and Ireland’s most prestigious music award ceremonies.

Creativity is at the heart of the Mercury Prize, and students from The Mandela Collective – Newcastle College’s in-house agency for Art, Design and Digital Art degree students – have put their exceptional design skills into practice. Commissioned by Creative Central NCL, Newcastle College and Newcastle City Council and working with Creative Heritage Studios CIC led by Director, Corinne Lewis-Ward, the partnership has designed bespoke pin badges for 2026 Mercury Prize short-listed artists and VIPs.

The project has brought students together to create a unique design on each badge for recipients. The designs were revealed at the launch of the Mercury Prize Fringe and will be gifted to recipients at the final awards ceremony.

Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College, said: “The Mercury Prize is a massive event in British music, and Newcastle College students are delivering it. The College's Mandela Collective has created bespoke gifts for nominees and VIPs; our trainee chefs are preparing food for the evening, and everyone will be welcomed by our events students. Each student will shine and show 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 is an incredible occasion. I am sure the students will have an unforgettable evening.”

Director of Creative Heritage Studios CIC, Corinne Lewis-Ward, 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 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’ve developed together and look forward to seeing the gifts presented to 2026 Albums of the Year short-listed artists who will be performing on the night and 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 Chefs' 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 and desserts for guests.

Travel and Tourism students will be welcoming guests and supporting with meet and greets throughout the awards night, supported by Chefs' Academy students who will also be assisting with front of house duties on the night.

General Manager at Utilita Arena Newcastle, Caroline James, said: “The 2026 Mercury Prize is a huge moment for Newcastle and 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 and giving them the opportunity to showcase their skills and talent.

"For us it’s more than simply playing host to the major event, it’s 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.