Phenomenal afternoon of celebrations at our 2026 Student and Staff Awards

Phenomenal afternoon of celebrations at our 2026 Student and Staff Awards 

On 1 July, we invited staff and students to join us at our annual Student and Staff Awards celebration. The Hub at EKC Dover College was full of excitement and pride as we shone a spotlight on the exceptional achievements and commitments of our students.  

Attendees enjoyed snacks and drinks while sharing stories and laughter around beautifully presented tables. 

The event brought together the entire College community, offering an opportunity to celebrate and recognise the triumphs of students and staff from every department. 

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 beautiful engraved award made from recycled wood, a gift voucher, and a certificate. All nominees went up to receive a certificate too. 

Tutors were bursting with pride seeing their nominees take to the stage and receive their well-deserved prize. We spoke to Student Experience Officer, Summer Smith, who organised the event. 

She said: “This night is all about coming together and celebrating the amazing year that everyone’s had, staff included, everyone has worked so hard this year, and the results of our students have shown that.” 

Having won the award for Outstanding 16–18-year-old, Millie Austin, was thrilled to have been nominated.  

Millie said: “I’m in a bit of shock but very happy about it. It was nervous going up to get the award but I’m proud of myself.” 

It was also announced at the Student Awards that Millie is going to be the next Students’ Union President.  

She said: “I was bursting with excitement when I found out, honestly, it’s amazing. I’m hoping to improve the communication between staff and students and be very approachable and friendly for everyone.”  

Millie credited the College for all the support she had received and mentioned how grateful she is to the class tutors for always believing in her.  

A particular highlight of the afternoon was when Jacob won the award for Inspirational Learner. Being recognised for his hard work and commitment to their course and College, as he is a class rep too, made him feel special.  

His tutors said at the event: “He has shown the staff and his fellow learners that having autism shouldn’t and doesn’t hold you back. He is an inspiration to us all.” 

The event closed with a speech from Principal, Eleanor, Sherratt who thanked guests for their attendance and commented on how proud the staff are of the outstanding achievements and ongoing success of our students. 

“It’s all about celebrating our students, these awards have all been nominated by our staff for the amazing things they’ve completed this year,” she said.  

“It’s important that we get to celebrate our students and it’s a really nice way to end the year for them.” 

We extend a huge thank you for all the hard work of the staff, students and supporters who made this magical event possible. 

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

Staff Awards 

Student Awards