Bradford College

Staff Awards for Excellence 2009/10

Bradford College proudly celebrated success with its annual Staff Awards for Excellence 2009/10.  The Awards Ceremony was held at the College’s Level 6 Restaurant, to mark the achievements of individuals and groups of people who play a vital role in making the College a fantastic place to work and study.

During the evening our award winners were honoured for showing true dedication and real pride in their work, scooping awards in the following categories:

• Team of the Year
• Outstanding Innovation Award
• Outstanding Leadership Award
• Outstanding Individual Support Role
• The Person that Makes me Smile
• Outstanding Teaching, Training and Learning Award
• Outstanding Individual Learning Support Award
• Special Award for Change and Innovation

Principal Michele Sutton, OBE was the vision behind the Staff Awards for Excellence, paying tribute to the award winners during the presentation ceremony, Michele said: “I’m really delighted to be here with you this evening, to celebrate your achievements. It is a great privilege to be the Principal of Bradford College.  We have some of the most talented students in the country - and some of the most committed and dedicated staff that go the extra mile to make the College an outstanding place to work and study.  That’s why this evening’s ceremony is really important to us; enabling us to recognise the fantastic work you do within the College.”

Executive Director of Finance, Mr Doug Stott was the Master of Ceremonies at the memorable event.  Speaking to award winners and guests, Doug said: “Ladies and gentlemen, colleagues and friends, a very warm welcome to this our Staff Awards night.  I’ve seen the hard work, effort and commitment that you have put into improving Bradford College - and this evening is a testament to that.”

Principal Michele Sutton, OBE went on to present the award winners with the Staff Excellence Awards, congratulating each worthy winner as she handed over their prize money and accolade.

The Person That Makes Me Smile Award was scooped by Christian McGrath.   Master of Ceremonies, Doug explained:  “Christian is always up beat and positive.
He always has a special way of talking to everyone, making them feel welcome and helping them. He is able to persuade even the most reluctant individual to do something that needs to be done and they will go away happy believing it was their idea all along.”  Doug continued: “To remain upbeat and to be able smile everyday is no mean feat, but to be able to also spread that happiness by smiling and helping everyone means a lot to other members of staff.”

As he accepted his award, Christian said: “I feel very honoured to have been nominated for this award by my colleagues at Bradford College.” With a smile on his face, Christian added: “I think it’s easier to smile, than to frown. So keep smiling everyone – it makes the day go quicker!”

During the evening’s formal dinner, our award winning staff and guests were treated to outstanding performances from Performing Arts student Elizabeth Hall and internationally acclaimed musician, Darren Dutson-Bromley. The three course dinner was prepared, cooked and served by our students from the NVQ Level 2 & 3 Hospitality and Catering Course.

The Team of the Year Award went to Bradford Law School for the significant and positive impact the team have had on their learners’ experience – through the development of their teaching and learning structures and strategies.  Law Lecturer Leyla Jackson, speaking on behalf of the Law Department said: “It is a privilege that we have won this award.  We are really proud of our team achievements this year, in particular pushing forward Moodle and e-assessments.”

The Outstanding Individual Support Role went to Veronique Leygue.  Explaining why receiving the award meant so much to her, Veronique said: “I’m very proud and very touched that the students have taken the trouble to nominate me for this award.” Veronique is well known for her kindness and thoughtfulness. She has supported learners who have struggled with personal issues and struggled in College.  Through her support and commitment to learners, many have gone on to excel in their studies and careers.

Paying tribute to the success of the staff during the Awards Evening, Director of Corporate Services, Andy Welsh said: “It makes me feel extremely proud to work for the College, knowing there are so many excellent staff that have contributed significantly to the continued success of the College.”

As a guest speaker, David Peel the co-founder of the Paper Zoo Theatre Company, was invited to attend the Awards Evening.  As a former student of the College, David spoke with passion and enthusiasm about his experience of Bradford College. In part of his speech, David said: “For me Bradford College and the people that teach here, are not only tutors, but guides, even guardians to some who would otherwise drift in society. The College is a shining example for many thousands of people, on how you can improve your life by educating yourself and giving yourself a chance in whatever career you choose.”

Colleagues who were also recognised for their remarkable achievements included: Kevin Harding, who scooped the Award for Outstanding Innovation; Jan Marston received an Award for Outstanding Teaching, Training and Learning and Fiona Deveney won the Outstanding Individual Learning Support Award during the memorable event.

The Special Award for Change and Innovation went to the Human Resources and CIS Systems Teams for the successful introduction of the new HR system for College staff. This ongoing work coupled with large scale contractual changes were successfully implemented within agreed deadlines.  Accepting the award on behalf of the departments involved, Personnel Manager, Robert Fitton smiled warmly and said: “It’s a great tribute for the team.  We’re delighted to have won this award - and to be recognised for all the hard work and commitment we have put in over the year.”

The Outstanding Leadership Award went to Stephen Jones. Expressing his delight at receiving the award, Stephen modestly said: “I’m very flattered to have been nominated for this award – it’s out of the blue and I didn’t expect it, so it’s very nice.” Stephen is well known as an excellent, well organised teacher who treats everyone fairly; always ensuring he has time for everyone.

Linda McKeon scooped the award for Outstanding Teaching, Training and Learning. Accepting the award, Linda said: “I’m surprised and thrilled to receive this award. It’s touching that students have taken the time to nominate me.” Linda’s lessons are reported as ‘beyond compare’ - encouraging and inspire everyone to achieve.

Summing up the evening, with pride, Kath Oldale, Executive Director for Performance Management said: “It is a pleasure and a privilege to be here this evening to celebrate in your success.  We’re extremely lucky to have so many excellent staff within the College, who have contributed significantly to the continued success of the College.”

Staff Awards for Excellence 2009/10 - Gallery