Stars Shine at Chichester College

A glittering night of celebration marked the exceptional achievements of Chichester College students.

The college held its annual Star Awards this week at Chichester Festival Theatre’s Minerva Theatre. What a spectacular night it proved to be.

Some 20 students and members of staff collected awards at the ‘Stars of 2024’ evening – made extra special as the college celebrates its 60^th anniversary year.

And tears of joy were shed when the college’s Brightest Star award was named at the end of the ceremony – won this year by media student Zoe Ferrigno.


Zoe, who has cerebral palsy,  is currently in her second year at the college and was heralded in her citation for her work in championing accessibility issues around college, as well as her confident and positive approach to learning – having removed any barriers and resolving issue with determination.

And she was overjoyed when she realised she had won the night’s biggest prize. She said: “It’s just absolutely amazing.

“I didn’t expect to win this – not at all! It means everything to me…I don’t know what to say, I’m lost for words. Thank you.”

Zoe’s family were at the ceremony, and her mum Lyn added: “It’s a proud mum moment. I know she’s worked really hard, she’s pushed her boundaries and she comes home feeling inspired.

“She’s come alive at Chichester College. Zoe has had all the support she needed and she’s gone further than we ever imagined. She’s pushed herself and turned into just the most phenomenal young lady.”

The stage was also set alight by several fantastic student performances.


Performing Arts students garnered rave reviews and lengthy applause for their phenomenal 1960s inspired performances, which included a Beatles-medley as well as ‘Live in Living Colour’ (the opening number from the musical ‘Catch Me If You Can’.

While dance students impressed with their ‘Gimme Shelter’ routine, as well as performing in a ‘Through the Eras’ fashion show, with garments designed and created by students on the fashion and textiles course. Hair and make-up artistry students were also involved, styling the performers.

There were even two previews of shows heading to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival next year – with extracts from ‘The Wonderful World of Winnie the Pooh’ and ‘Salem – The Witch Trials of Today’ giving the audience a flavour of what to expect.

Principal Helen Loftus hosted the show, alongside Vice Principals Frances Mullens and Julia Williams. Helen said: “It was a spectacular evening – the perfect night really and I know I speak for everyone when I say how proud we are of all our worthy winners, not least Zoe who exemplifies what it means to be a Brightest Star.

“The performances were exceptional, and I am grateful to all of the students involved – fashion, performing arts, hair, make-up, dance, musical theatre and stage management, who were running the show – as well as the staff who organised the event and supported our students.

“Feedback from our guests included phenomenal, kind, hard-working, passionate, talented, dedicated and committed. These are all words which sum up our college community perfectly – students, apprentices and staff alike.

“What an amazing way to celebrate 60 years of Chichester College, with our best Star Awards yet. Here’s to the next 60.”