Annual Learner Awards Event Returns for Chelmsford College
Chelmsford College’s annual Learner Awards Event returned to St John’s Church on the 24th of June 2026, bringing learners, their families and friends, staff, alumni and stakeholders together for an evening of celebration. The event has become a much loved tradition for the College and this year’s ceremony was no exception as it was full of pride as always.
The evening was hosted by David Warnes, Principal and CEO, who opened the event by recognising the hard work, resilience and ambition shown by learners throughout the year. He also thanked the families, staff and partners who support learners on their journeys, highlighting how important that collective effort is to their success.
Curriculum teams had the difficult yet rewarding decision of selecting learners for two key awards across every subject area: the Award of Excellence and the Significant Progress Award. The citations were read by David Warnes with Debbie Garroway, Deputy Principal – Curriculum and Quality, presenting each award. Debbie shared how much she enjoys being part of the event saying it’s "one of my favourite activities across the year. Well done to all the winners!".
The celebration continued with a series of Cross College Awards, recognising learners who have gone above and beyond in areas such as sustainability, inclusion, sport and personal development. These awards included Sustainability Champion, Inclusive Learner of the Year, Outstanding Sporting Achievement and the Principal’s Award of the Year, which were presented by Debs Hurst, Chief Operating Officer.
A standout moment of the evening came from alumni speaker Callum Ridgers, who returned to share his journey from Chelmsford College learner to proud business owner. Speaking directly to learners whose position he was once in not too long ago, Callum encouraged them to take opportunities, believe in their abilities and keep pushing towards their goals.
Despite the heatwave, the Church had a great atmosphere as learners collected their certificates, engraved awards and vouchers. Many citations recognised not only academic success, but personal milestones too such as overcoming challenges, building confidence and showing the determination that reflects Chelmsford College’s values of ambition, inclusion and excellence.
Makin the event even more memorable and opening it to the wider community, Chelmsford College also acknowledged the vital role of employers and community organisations by presenting Work Placement Employer of the Year and Community Partner of the Year awards to Bouygues UK, Site Ready Solutions and The Children's Society and Child Centred Policing Team. These partnerships continue to shape the experiences and opportunities for learners at the College.
Chelmsford College would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the event. From the staff who organised the event and ensured the smooth running to families, employers, partners and of course, the learners themselves. The event proved to be a success and ensured the academic year ended on a high. The College looks forward to welcoming new and returning learners in the upcoming academic year and to celebrating even more achievements at the 2027 Awards Event.