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Star students celebrated at our Excellence Awards

Posted: 09/07/2025

Our students were recognised for their exceptional achievements at the annual Excellence Awards, held at The Metrodome in a night filled with celebration, inspiration and community spirit.

The evening featured a range of spectacular performances from talented student singers and dancers, creating a celebratory atmosphere for all attendees.

The event highlighted the dedication, determination and talent of students from across the College, with awards presented in a variety of categories including the Student Voice Representative Award, Townend Tribute Award, SEND Award, Future Leader Award, Apprentice of the Year, Societies Award, Equality and Diversity Progression Award, ITS Student of the Year, Overcoming Adversity, Sixth Form Student of the Year, Lifelong Learning Award, HE Student of the Year, Brian Glover Memorial Award and Johnston Award.

Excellence Award on a table

Special guest speaker Caroline Buckle, a decorated army veteran, award-winning Paralympic powerlifter and proud Barnsley College alumna, delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on resilience and the value of education. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Lady Rowena Montagu Stewart Wortley, Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Barnsley, underlining the significance of the evening.

One award winner, Paul Taberner, who received the Lifelong Learning Award, said: “I’m glad to have recognition and a thank you from Barnsley College. They have always supported me, and this evening has been a spectacular one. Thank you.”

Guests enjoyed a selection of refreshments and stunning venue decorations, all contributing to a truly memorable occasion celebrating student success.

Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive David Akeroyd said: “The Excellence Awards showcase the hard work, determination and resilience of our students. It’s fantastic to see them celebrated in this way, and we are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved.”

We look forward to continuing to celebrate the success of our students in the years to come.