Double success for Barnsley College Student Services at national NAMSS Awards

Our Student Services team are celebrating double success following a prestigious national awards ceremony.

At the National Association for Managers of Student Services (NAMSS) Awards, the College received two honours – Catherine Hirst won the Newcomer of the Year award, and our Crime and Justice Week initiative was runner-up in the Inspirational Project of the Year award.

Catherine, Talent United and Enterprise Coordinator at Barnsley College, was recognised for transforming the College’s Industry Weeks programme. Her work has strengthened employer engagement, expanded the scale of delivery and ensured activities are closely aligned with curriculum areas and labour market needs.

The programme has created more opportunities for students to engage with employers and higher education providers, helping them make clearer connections between their studies and future career pathways.

Crime and Justice Week is an annual College-wide initiative held every February to raise awareness of crime, its consequences and routes to prevention and support. Responding to both national concerns and local priorities – particularly knife crime – the project was reshaped this year with a sharper focus and a significantly expanded programme.

Catherine said: “I am truly grateful for this recognition. None of it would be possible without the incredible support of the team: Lucy Evans, Lee Perks, Shelley Gaunt, and Josephine Smith.

“The work I do would not be as impactful or relevant without the support from local companies, employers, and training providers. Your collaboration makes our work meaningful, and I’m proud to be part of such a committed community.

“Here’s to continuing our work in supporting and empowering students!”