Over 20 exceptional students had their successes celebrated last night, at London South East Colleges’ annual awards evening.
The event took place at the college’s Bromley Campus, bringing together students, their families and friends, staff, employers and community partners.
Winners were presented with awards in a range of categories, from Student of the Year (at each campus) to Good Citizen, Teamwork, Aspiration and Inclusion awards - recognising determination, kindness and resilience as well as academic success.
Guests were welcomed into the event by some of Bexley Music’s exceptional students and the London College of Performing Arts also gave a fantastic performance.
Opening the evening, Group Principal and CEO, Dr Sam Parrett CBE, welcomed guests and congratulated award winners. She said:
“Everyone receiving an award tonight is an inspiration and a very important part of our college community. Our staff and students support one another in so many ways, on a daily basis, and this is often in addition to their own family, work and life commitments. Thank you to you all; your hard work and compassion do not go unnoticed.”
CEO of Bromley Football Club, Mark Hammond, delivered an inspiring keynote speech. He shared reflections from his own professional journey and spoke about the importance of teamwork and aiming high. He said:
“Throughout my own football career, I had to deal with rejection and disappointment - but ultimately this inspired me to move into education, so I could help other young people to improve and succeed.
“I am so proud to have been able to support the college; there is some amazing talent here that is nurtured daily, with fantastic staff and students working so hard. Well done to all the award winners here tonight, you should be extremely proud of your success.”
In addition to the awards, scholarships from the LASER Education Foundation (our education group’s charity) were also presented to seven students. The first of their kind, these scholarships are sponsored by supportive employers to help talented and promising students with their studies at college.
As well as receiving financial support, each scholar is guaranteed an interview with their sponsor’s company at the end of their course, giving them an exceptional employment opportunity.
A student panel discussion was hosted by student engagement team leader, Paul Baird. Paul was joined by former Student President Nicole Mondundo and three current students. They spoke about their experiences at LSEC – reflecting on the support they have received, their personal growth and their achievements.
LSEC fellowships were also conferred on four individuals, who support the college community in exceptional ways. These were: Matt Jones (PwC); Chandra Sharma (Federation of Small Business); Graham Flynn (Box Clever) and Adam Marley (Ensignia).
And in addition, Rod Baker (Barclays), Mark Burnett and Angela Hands were conferred with the first Fellowships from Elevare Civic Education Group. This brings our total number of Fellows to over 20 – reflecting the commitment and support of our employer and stakeholder partners.
Closing the event, Deputy CEO and Executive Principal, Asfa Sohail, thanked everyone involved and celebrated the college’s collective achievements. She said:
“Tonight, we have seen the very best of what our students can achieve when they are supported, inspired and determined. It has also been fantastic to celebrate the exceptional contribution of our employer partners and fellows, who do so much for our college community.
“This event is a perfect reflection of how much we can do when we work in partnership. Together, we really can transform lives through the power of learning.
“Thank you to all our guests, and a huge congratulations to all our award winners and our LASER scholars – you all have very exciting futures ahead.”
Our student winners said:
Rhyheiem Steward, 19, LASER Special Recognition Award
“I really didn’t expect to be nominated. I thought it was a mistake at first. It’s my first time getting nominated for something like this. I want to use this on my CV to help get an IT apprenticeship”
Felton Kpundeh, 20, FE Learner of the Year – Lambeth
“LSEC has been very supportive, it’s a big college and I enjoy getting to see new places. I’m so excited to be here.”
Samuel Needham, 20, Skills Award
“I didn’t know it would be such a fancy event, I was surprised to be invited. I was walking the dog when I got the call to tell me! I’m very happy to have been thought of”
Brooke McConville, 17, Project Galaxy Award
“I’m just trying to take it all in. The college is really friendly, but I am a bit nervous about going up on stage”
Erblin Poleshi, 21, Good Citizen Award (Bromley)
“I’m feeling really good tonight! And very supported by my friends from college. The staff here really listen to my concerns, I’m even able to take things to the principal”
Macy Howard, 19, Inclusion Award
“Receiving this award really gives me a boost to keep going forward with my college work, it’s a privellage and an honour. I want to accept the award on behalf of my grandad, who inspired me to pursue the public services course here and would be very proud of me tonight.”
Tia Barnes, 20, Principal’s Community and Inclusion Award
“I was shocked that I was nominated tonight. I’ve been part of the college for 5 years and have enjoyed every course I’ve done. I’m a little nervous to go up on stage but it will be worth it”
Djeinaba Sokhona, 18 & Shabnam Ahmadzai, Teamwork and Leadership Award
“We’re feeling good tonight, getting nominated for an award has made us feel more confident. We like being leaders, and were so happy when our tutor nominated us”