2026 Student and Employer Awards: Celebrating success

On Monday 29 June, we invited staff and students to join us at our annual Student Awards celebration.

The College was full of excitement and pride as we shone a spotlight on the exceptional achievements and commitments of our students and the dedication and support from local employers.

Hosts, Peter and Mareace, provided wit and charm throughout the evening whilst Music students, Rosie and Vi, helped create an electric atmosphere with their acoustic set. Attendees enjoyed canapés and drinks while sharing stories and laughter around beautifully presented tables. 

The event acknowledged the success of over 46 students and 23 employers from across East Kent; each were recognised at the grand ceremony held on campus in the Main Hall. The evening was the perfect opportunity for all departments in the College to come together to share student success, and to reward some of the most inspiring employers we work with.  

Staff nominations recognised students for outstanding achievement, community engagement, academic excellence, and leadership. All award winners were invited to the stage and presented with a certificate, gift voucher, and additional prizes from generous departmental sponsors.   

Tutors were bursting with pride seeing their nominees take to the stage a receive their well-deserved prize. Cat Smith, Games and Graphic Desing Tutor, reflected on the accomplishment of their students commenting: “Matthew has shown great determination over the last year, working hard to overcome significant barriers to his learning.  

“He is an extremely positive and supportive friend and classmate, who is always there for his peers. He’s also a member of the Magic Circle and performs killer magic tricks!” 

Having won the award for Outstanding Work in Animation, Matthew Holt, was thrilled to have been nominated by his tutor. 

“Learning hasn’t always been easy for me,” said Matthew. 

“I came to College from a smaller school where I received support throughout my lessons due to my autism. I never imagined that university would be an option for me, but thanks to the opportunities I’ve received at College, I’ll be starting university this September. 

“I have absolutely loved my time at College, it has been an amazing experience. I was thrilled to win this award.” 

Matthew will be heading to the University of Norwich in September to study animation further. He credited the College for all the support he had received and mentioned how grateful he is to the class tutors for always believing in him. 

A particular highlight of the evening was when Alica Coker won the award for Outstanding Work in Early Years. Being recognised for their hard work and commitment to their course made them feel really special.  

Alicia said: “I was shocked to win this award; there are so many other dedicated practitioners in my class.  

“College has really prepared me for my next steps in Early Years. I loved my work placement, and I learnt so much about working with young children there. I would not have been given the opportunity to start an apprenticeship with the company without completing my placement with them.”  
 
Alicia plans to go start a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Eary Years in September. With her can-do attitude and positive energy, we know she will succeed.  

The evening also honoured employers who have played a vital role in providing work placements, apprenticeships, and industry experience for our learners.  

One of the winning employers, Beth’s Bridal, was recognised for their ongoing collaboration with the College’s Creative and Design department. Being an integral part of the annual Wedding Syndicate event, where Photography students have the opportunity to photograph on location. 

Beth shared her appreciation for the award, speaking warmly about the importance of creating opportunities for young people. 

 They said: “It has been wonderful to work with the College over the last couple of years. As a small business this award is really special to me. 

“Seeing the student’s confidence and creativity grow on the shoot day is lovely to watch. Being able to give back, helping the younger generation, and be part of such a special day is just magic.” 

The evening closed with a speech from Principal, Emily Johnson, who thanked guests for their attendance and commented on how proud they are of the outstanding achievements and ongoing success of our students. 

“We have more than 4,500 students at the College, so to be nominated for an award is an incredible achievement,” she said.  

“You should all be immensely proud of yourselves. Congratulations to each and every one of you. You have done both yourselves and the College proud. 

“I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the employers who have joined us today. Without your support, guidance and commitment, our students would not have the opportunities to thrive in the way they do. We are incredibly grateful for everything you do.” 

Thank you to the staff, students and supporters who made this amazing event possible. A special thank you to Morgan Sindall Group, Cardo, Dennis Williams, and Walker Construction for sponsoring our event.  

We would also like to thank Simon Dolby, Fundraising and Development Lead at East Kent Mind, for opening our ceremony with such an insightful speech and being such a huge support to us here at EKC Canterbury College. 

Congratulations to all our award winners, we look forward to seeing what you achieve next, and where your future might take you.  

Swipe through to see our Student Award winners

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Swipe through to see our Employer Award winners

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Our award winners