Staff at Wiltshire College & University Centre gathered at their Lackham campus recently for the annual Staff Awards, a celebratory event recognising the hard work and dedication of employees throughout the 2024-25 academic year
Over 850 professional and curriculum staff members participated in a review of performance and progress before the awards ceremony and luncheon. The event highlighted the collective effort in driving the college forward.
This year, over 150 peer nominations were submitted across four categories: Outstanding Teaching, Student Experience, College Community, and Team of the Year.
A judging panel meticulously selected 22 winners who demonstrated exceptional contributions.Principal & CEO Iain Hatt presented the awards, stating: "This year, we’ve seen many impressive projects, examples of community engagement, fundraising, and positive contributions to our college community. Staff have played a key role in supporting events and activities across all campuses, and I’m genuinely grateful to everyone who has contributed to the success of the college."
John Bolton, IT Desktop Engineer, who received the award for Student Experience, shared, "I’m very grateful for the recognition, and it’s lovely to accept this award. We were able to get a first-hand look at the problems and difficulties students were facing by sitting in and experiencing it ourselves.
"The results meant that we could make changes relevant for them and have a positive impact on both teaching and learning in the classroom."
Oonagh Cameron-Clist, Lecturer in Early Years Care and Education, recognised for Outstanding Teaching, commented: "I’m not someone who likes the spotlight – but it’s also really nice because I know the nomination came from my team. It means a lot to be recognised by the people I work alongside every day."
Mr. Hatt also highlighted several key achievements from the past year:
- 128,800 hours of industry placement and work experience completed – equivalent to 17,405 working days.
- Over 3,000 prospective students attended open days, taster sessions, and experience events – nearly 300 more than last year.
- 16-19 applications have increased for the second consecutive year.
- Almost 5,000 visitors attended lambing events at Lackham.
- The College achieved an Ofsted ‘Good’ rating for its residential accommodation at Lackham.
Furthermore, students secured exciting opportunities for their futures, achieving national recognition, international placements, and industry awards, a testament to the dedication of the College’s teaching and professional staff.
The awards event served as a powerful reminder of the collective commitment to excellence at Wiltshire College & University Centre.
Photo by Freja Turland
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