LSIS honours the cream of the further education sector at STAR Awards 2008

The fifth annual STAR Awards – the Oscars of the further education sector – were held in London on 24 November, with a chef, a college principal and an offender learning head among those honoured. The award winners were announced in front of an audience of short-listed nominees, their nominators and special guests.

The nominations were assessed by a panel of independent experts, who drew up a short list and selected the overall winners. Nominations for next year’s awards are now open – so those inspired by this year’s winners can start nominating the potential STARs of next year straight away.

Siôn Simon MP said: “The LSIS STAR Awards recognise the tremendous contribution made by those who work in the further education and skills sector and, in particular, the unsung heroes who make such a difference to the lives of learners. This year’s winners and nominees have inspired countless young and adult learners and have helped them to achieve their full potential; I congratulate them all warmly.”

"These awards highlight the vital importance of the further education and skills sector and those who work in it to building a strong UK economy and a cohesive society, helping thousands of young people and adults gain skills, confidence and new qualifications every day.”

The awards ceremony was hosted by Mike Baker, the BBC broadcaster, and Dr Floella Benjamin OBE. Students from Reynolds Performing Arts showcased a mixed group Latin dance performance after winning an X Factor-style competition to perform at the awards.

View winner profiles

Click here to view the gallery

Shelly Phelan, nominator, North East Worcestershire College

" In nominating a member of your organisation such as a colleague or team, you are letting them know you value what they do and that you think their contribution and efforts are worthwhile and should be recognised by others."

"The awards evening itself was a fantastic event and we were all made to feel very special. It certainly felt like a reward just being there. When I heard our College being announced I could have leapt for joy (and probably did!). I think it took about a week for the smiles to wear off our faces. When the team returned to College, everyone was pleased for us and a lot of people congratulated the team."

"Winning this award has provided a well deserved pat on the back, brought a smile to a lot of faces and given the team a well deserved boost of confidence to help motivate them to improve even further during the next year."

Clare Chick, Marketing Officer, Stafford College

"The Star Awards have been invaluable for us from a public relations perspective, helping us to underline the high quality of the provision and support available at the College. We were able to use this first to announce our nominees, later the short list and finally to celebrate success at the awards ceremony. When our students were chosen to appear at the ceremony too, we were able to achieve extremely positive media coverage locally, regionally and nationally. "

"The Awards have also created considerable excitement among the wider college community. The success of our nominees created a feel good factor among colleagues and considerable pride from the students with whom they come into contact."

"Everyone connected with the Star Awards deserve awards of their own for their professionalism and helpfulness. Nothing was too much trouble and it was an absolute pleasure to work with them. We have lots more unsung heroes on this campus and we are looking forward to celebrating their achievements with nominations next year."