Staff at Bridgwater & Taunton College have been recognised for their performance, attitude and effort during the past year, at the College’s third annual Support and Teaching staff Achievement and Recognition (STAR) Awards held at The McMillan Theatre.
The Awards were set up to recognise and celebrate teams and individuals who have stood out by going above and beyond what is expected of them. More than 180 members of staff were nominated by staff and students across seven categories, ranging from Inspirational Teacher Award, to the Team Award for Innovation.
Following a stunning menu, produced by the College’s catering team, guests welcomed the evening’s keynote speaker, Paul Lowndes. Paul is Managing Director for Salamanca Group Ltd. He brings more than 30 years’ of international experience, working with business partners from the UK, Australia, Middle East, South East Asia, Europe and South America. Stories of his exciting career and experiences worldwide and inspired guests and kicked off an unforgettable evening.
The Inspirational Support for Students Award, was presented to Kate Gingell for the outstanding impact she has had on her students’ progress. Kate was described as having endless patience, but firm and resolute when it comes to attendance and sitting exams. The support she has given is clearly reflected in students’ excellent results across the construction curriculum.
The 2018 Inspirational Teacher Award went to Sam Ledger, for continually seeking new ways to engage and support her learners. Simon Burt from the Automotive department was presented with the Making a Difference Award. Simon works tirelessly to ensure that learner, employer and community needs are always met. The College’s Residential team received the Support Team Award after being recognised for the positive difference they make to the lives of the 150 students who live on site at College, whether that be organising a diverse enrichment programme or mentoring them in wellbeing issues, and ensuring the safety of each individual.
The 2018 Teaching Team Award was presented to the Foundation Degree Sports Science with Sports Coaching Education team, recognising the array of unique opportunities they have made available for their learners. The Team Award for Innovation was awarded to the Specialist Skills Recruitment Project at the College’s Construction Skills and Innovation Centre in Cannington, a new recruitment model used to successfully fill highly specialist roles at the Centre.
The Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution, was awarded to FA and Bridgwater & Taunton College Women and Girls Football Apprentice, Leah Burridge. Since starting in post, Leah has smashed all targets set by the FA, which was to engage 100 new girls through football within 12 months. After just seven months, Leah has engaged more than 600 girls, with plans to reach 1,000 participants within 12 months.
Reflecting on her award, Leah said,
“I felt honoured and overwhelmed that I won the 2018 STAR Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution. I never imagined to be the first apprentice to do so and am extremely proud to be making such an impact within the College.”
Andy Berry, Principal and Chief Executive at Bridgwater & Taunton College, said,
“Our STAR Awards is a fantastic way to showcase the great work our colleagues do and celebrate the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the local community. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of the winners and thank them for all the passion and professionalism they display in their roles. We look forward to a new academic year, where, as a College, we hope to celebrate many more successes.”
