South Bank Colleges colleagues and students were among the outstanding individuals recognised at this year's LSBU Group Education Awards, celebrating excellence in teaching, student support, technical education and student achievement across the wider LSBU Group.

The annual awards bring together London South Bank University, South Bank Colleges and South Bank Academies to recognise the people who make an exceptional difference to learners every day. This year's ceremony highlighted the remarkable talent, dedication and innovation found across the group, with South Bank Colleges enjoying an especially successful evening.

Celebrating student success

The evening began with recognition for exceptional students, and South Bank Colleges proudly celebrated Tajion Sullivan, who was named South Bank Colleges Student of the Year.

Alongside strong academic performance, Tajion was recognised for contributing his own time to a large-scale collaborative games development project, helping to modify a Mario Bros game with an international team of developers. His enthusiasm for learning, technical expertise and willingness to stretch his skills perfectly reflected the curiosity and ambition encouraged throughout the college.

Outstanding student representation

Students also recognised those who help ensure every learner has a voice.

Abda Alo received the South Bank Colleges Course Rep of the Year award after being praised for acting as an outstanding bridge between students and staff. Described as approachable, supportive and an effective advocate for classmates, Abda was recognised for encouraging fellow students to engage fully with college life while representing their views with professionalism and care.

Excellence in professional services

The Support Staff Member of the Year category showcased the enormous contribution made by colleagues behind the scenes.

Two members of South Bank Colleges received Highly Commended recognition:

• Tina French (Exams).

• Laura Golong (Marketing).

Both were praised for consistently going above and beyond to support colleagues and students, with Laura recognised for her professionalism, creativity and commitment across the organisation, while Tina was celebrated for her reliability and willingness to help during even the busiest periods.

The overall South Bank Colleges Support Staff Member of the Year award was presented to Amanda Meredith from Student Recruitment. Amanda was recognised as a supportive and dedicated leader whose approachable style, commitment to developing colleagues and determination to improve services have made a lasting impact across the college.

Quiet dedication making a big difference

Some of the biggest contributions happen away from the spotlight. This year's South Bank Colleges Unsung Hero award went to Danny Smith, whose work developing green skills education and supporting students in national competitions has helped raise the college's profile while inspiring learners to achieve at the highest level. Judges praised the lasting impact of Danny's expertise, commitment and quiet determination.

Championing apprenticeships

Clare Rooney was named South Bank Colleges Apprenticeship Champion of the Year.

Clare was recognised for her dedication to improving apprenticeship outcomes and helping learners reach their full potential. Her commitment has played an important role in strengthening apprenticeship success across the college.

Inspirational teaching

Outstanding teaching was recognised across a number of categories.

Jay Pelp received the South Bank Colleges Teacher of the Year award after receiving multiple student nominations. Students praised Jay's enthusiasm, engaging teaching style and ability to create an open, supportive learning environment where confidence and curiosity can flourish, particularly within complex and sensitive subject areas.

Supporting every learner

Helping students succeed both academically and personally remains central to the South Bank Colleges experience.

Chandia Salman was named Personal Tutor/Progress Coach of the Year, with students highlighting Chandia's kindness, empathy and unwavering support. Judges praised the genuine relationships built with learners and the encouragement that helps students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

The Learning Support Champion award was presented to Alice Perigoe, recognised for helping students build confidence, independence and resilience through patient, thoughtful and consistent support.

Outstanding course leadership

The evening concluded South Bank Colleges' awards with Daniel Chavez receiving Course Leader of the Year.

Students praised Daniel's patience, encouragement and ability to help learners overcome challenges while building confidence and achieving their goals. His supportive leadership and commitment to student success made him a deserving recipient of the award.

Celebrating excellence across South Bank Colleges

The breadth of recognition received across this year's awards reflects the dedication, professionalism and passion found throughout South Bank Colleges.

From inspiring teachers and supportive tutors to expert technicians, professional services colleagues and exceptional students, the awards celebrated the people who make a lasting difference every day. Congratulations to every nominee, highly commended recipient and winner for representing South Bank Colleges so brilliantly across the LSBU Group.