Exceptional students were honoured as Newham College held it’s annual Shining Stars award ceremony - raising more than £58,000 for a trust supporting those who face social and financial hardship.
More than 300 guests attended the event yesterday, held in conjuntion with the Learning Revolution Trust, at the college’s East Ham campus.
Special guests included England rugby legend Martin Offiah, six-time Olympian Tessa Sanderson CBE, who is trust patron, and comedian and actor Ricky Grover. They were joined by Newham borough councillors, industry leaders and local businesses.
During the evening 19 awards were presented by Tessa Sanderson and Andrew Mitchell, master of ceremonies. Accolades ranged from Student of the Year to Champion in Promoting Equality and Diversity, with all nominees receiving highly commended certificates.
The former javelin thrower and heptathlete said: “If you show you are dedicated and willing then we (Tessa Sanderson Foundation and Learning Revolution Trust) will do everything we can to help you succeed.”
Entertainment on the night came from performing arts students with Chelsey Cairns and the Uptown Funk Troupe and a stand-up routine from actor and comedian Ricky Grover,
Guests speakers also took to the stage. Martin Offiah told the audience: “I had the determination to succeed but I also had great people offering me support, even if it was just a lift home from training. It was the little things that made a huge difference.
“With Newham College and the trust you have that support.”
Di Gowland, Newham College Principal and Chief Executive, said: “These students are the hardest-working, most dedicated and promising in the whole of Newham College. We are incredibly proud of them and we wish them the very best as they move forward to the next stage of their education or career.”
The Newham Recorder are proud sponsors of the Apprentice of the Year Award won by Najwa Bouaddallah.
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