2026 STAR students and employers congratulated

Walsall College’s STAR Awards ceremony saw recognition for an early years student progressing on to a degree in play therapy and a building maintenance student working towards a T Level in construction, among others.

The learners were among 18 finalists attending a special ceremony at the college along with their lecturers, families, friends, and other college staff.

Commenting on the ceremony, Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma CBE DL said: “The STAR Awards is the college’s opportunity to celebrate the progress, resilience, growing confidence and self-belief of these student finalists and winners and say to them, ‘well done’.

“Many congratulations to them all.”

Here’s what some of the award winners had to say:

“I’m thrilled. Not just because I have a cool trophy, but because it shows that the teachers I’ve worked with so far have acknowledged me and my achievements.  I’m so grateful because of them and their hard work in teaching me.”

Student of the Year –Technical: Timothy
Progression – Level 2 Building Maintenance

“Receiving the award made me proud I’ve come so far.  The best part of my course has got to be the friendships I made.  My confidence has grown as well.  That’s due to having supportive tutors who never gave up on me.”

Student of the Year – Vocational: Molly
Progression – BSc Play Therapy

“My award feels like a little bit of proof that if I put in the effort, it will be acknowledged. The recognition means a lot.”

Volunteer of the Year – Eden
Progression – Level 1 Skills for Progression course

An Employer Contribution Award was also presented to Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) in recognition of their long-term partnership and continued commitment to supporting the college’s T Level in Construction. Over the past six years, BBV has provided industry placements, interviews and career progression opportunities for more than 40 students, with many progressing into advanced apprenticeships.

Their support extends beyond placements through expert guest talks, site visits, mentoring, staff upskilling opportunities and guidance on industry-standard equipment and software, helping to ensure students receive an exceptional, industry-relevant learning experience.