Star Quality
Over 15,000 students, 1,444 members of staff; and out of these were selected just 53 stars and six staff stars ― but there only can be one Brightest Star...
The award of the evening went to a mature student who had no formal qualifications, and took the brave decision to come back to college to train for a new career. This is particularly admirable in these uncertain economic times, especially with a family to support. Paul Hodgson threw himself wholeheartedly into his course and through tenacity and determination found himself an apprenticeship which enabled him to complete his higher level plumbing qualifications.
Paul has gone on to run his own plumbing and heating business and is a shining example to all who want to enter the industry; showing that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve your goals. He is an outstanding student, totally committed to learning and always interested in knowing more about his new craft. He plans to grow his business, continue developing his skills and lecturer Mark Green hopes that some day Paul will take on apprentices into his business to pass on what he’s learnt.
This year’s celebrations delivered as promised; with plenty of ‘wow’ factor, sparkle and glamour. Emotions ran high as humbled students and stunned staff were recognised and rewarded for their hard work, commitment and contribution to the college.
The Chichester College Staff Awards were recognised for the first time at Stars and based on nominations provided by you. Other than the upcoming Chairman’s Award this is the only opportunity we have to openly celebrate the successful work and dedication of our staff, and to be chosen for one of only six awards is truly an honour.
The show was opened with an enthusiastic introduction from vice principal Andy Green followed by a Historical Hair show, showcasing impressive hairstyles famed through the ages in a chronological display by Level 2 Diploma in Ladies Hairdressing students.
Awards were then presented for Hair & Beauty, Access, Computing, Hospitality & Tourism and Sport & Public Services courses. Level 3 Fashion & Clothing Diploma and Certificate students put on a dazzling ‘Exquisite Corpse’ fashion show before the awards for Teacher Training, Business & Management, Creative & Performing Arts, Apprenticeships and Construction were announced.
Two Enterprise & Entrepreneurship students from the recently launched Peter Jones Enterprise Academy entertained curious onlookers as they pitched their business ideas in the style of a TV commercial. Engineering, Work-Based Learning, return to Work, Landbased and 14-16 Provision students were then awarded their certificates and trophies on stage, ahead of the exciting interlude by Level 3 Diploma and Subsidiary Diploma in Performing Arts (Musicial Theatre) students, who performed “Seasons of Love” from Rent, a rock opera inspired by Puccini’s La Boheme.
Following the song and dance extravaganza, student ‘stars’ from A-level Programmes, Learning Support, Health, Care & Childhood Studies and Foundation Programmes were called to the stage to collect their awards, after which Christopher Wallis was presented with the Special Achievement Award to recognise his tremendous achievement as part of Team UK at the international vocational skills competition, WorldSkills London 2011.
The show then reached a climax with the presentation of the highly coveted Staff Awards and, of course, the Brightest Star.
In order to host a smooth-running performance, many staff started work in the Sports Centre at 6am and did not leave until after midnight. Hospitality students served delicious food, our florists made beautiful table arrangements and Stage Management students supported the event throughout the evening.
Principal Shelagh Legrave said, “Thanks are due to Trudy Baxter and Andy Green for organising and co-ordinating a wonderful celebration. It was a great night, watched by people in Australia, China and Japan as well as more locally ― and a great showcase for the college”.