Celebrating outstanding student success at 20th anniversary Student Awards

West Thames College celebrated the achievements of its exceptional students at the annual Student Awards on Thursday evening, recognising learners who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, resilience, academic excellence and contribution to college life.

The celebration was attended by a distinguished group of civic leaders, education partners and College governors, reflecting the strong partnerships that support West Thames College and its students. Special guests included Rosi Prescott, Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Hounslow; the Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Ranjit Gill, accompanied by the Mayor's Consort, Dr Praveen Rooproy; Trevor MacAlonan, Service Manager for Careers, Enterprise and Employment at the London Borough of Hounslow; Karen Oliver from The Rise School; Nicola Hawkins from Ambitious about Autism; and West Thames College governors Ajit Singh, Alan Rides, Annita Gray, Charanjit Ajitsingh, Rose Turner and Tom Hayhoe, all of whom joined sponsors, employers, staff, students and their families in celebrating the outstanding achievements of this year's award winners.

This year's ceremony marked a significant milestone as the College celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Student Awards, while also welcoming Marta Gajewska as Principal and CEO to her first awards ceremony in the role.

Hosted by students Naima Yusuf and Dennis-Gabriele Mihaila, the evening featured a musical performance by Music student Shaylah Thomas Mathurin and an inspiring keynote speech from former Project SEARCH student Ian Friel, who shared his journey from West Thames College to a successful career at PwC.

Opening the ceremony, Principal and CEO Marta Gajewska said:

"At West Thames College, we believe every student deserves the space to dream big and the skills, knowledge and support to turn those dreams into reality. Tonight's ceremony is living proof of that. The students we honour have not only worked hard, they have taken what they have learned and begun building the futures they imagined for themselves. Seeing the talent, resilience and ambition in this room tells me everything I need to know about this college and its future. It is an honour to celebrate every one of our nominees and winners."

Vice Principal Katrin Lehmann said:

"These awards recognise students whose creativity, commitment and resilience have helped them thrive. Every nominee should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved."

Director of Health Care & Science Carolyn Moncrieffe said:

"Our award winners have shown exceptional determination, professionalism and compassion throughout their studies. They represent the very best of West Thames College."

Director of Business, ICT, Travel and Partnerships Eric Stober said:

"These students have embraced every opportunity available to them and demonstrated the skills, ambition and work ethic that will help them succeed in their future careers."

Interim Vice Principal Curriculum & Quality Lindsey Stewart said:

"Education changes lives, and tonight's winners are wonderful examples of what can be achieved through perseverance, ambition and a willingness to keep learning."

Alongside curriculum awards, the ceremony also recognised students whose achievements have had a lasting impact on the College community. These special awards celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in supporting others, overcoming significant challenges or achieving exceptional success during their time at West Thames College.

The Contribution Award was presented to Romulo Todao Mendes Gomes, recognising the positive difference he has made to College life through his commitment, enthusiasm and willingness to support fellow students and staff.

The Determination Award went to Haris Yaqubi, celebrating his resilience, perseverance and ability to overcome challenges while continuing to excel in his studies.

The evening concluded with the Outstanding Achievement Award, presented to Zoya Virk. This prestigious award recognises a student whose accomplishments, talent and dedication have truly set them apart and who embodies the values and aspirations of West Thames College.

The College also thanked its sponsors and employer partners whose generous support helped make this year's awards possible.

2026 Student Award Winners

Congratulations to all of this year's nominees and winners. Their achievements reflect the talent, resilience, ambition and community spirit that continue to define West Thames College.