The Henley College Celebrates Excellence, Leadership and Achievement at Education Awards 2026

More than 200 students, parents, staff, governors, employers and community partners gathered at Henley Town Hall on Tuesday 23rd June for The Henley College's annual Education Awards, celebrating the outstanding achievements, talents and contributions of students completing their studies this summer. 

Despite temperatures reaching record highs across the region, the historic Town Hall was filled to capacity as students were recognised for their academic excellence, resilience, leadership, creativity, personal development and contribution to College life. 

Opening the evening, Principal Simon Spearman welcomed guests and reflected on another successful year for the College, highlighting the achievements of students who have excelled both academically and personally while embracing the College's commitment to excellence and an exceptional student experience. 

The celebrations began with a musical performance from Lu Seaman, whose piano and vocal renditions of "Au Contraire" and "Renew My Subscription" by They Might Be Giants provided a fitting opening to the evening. 

The audience was then treated to a powerful dramatic performance by Pixie Cherrington, who delivered a moving monologue from Dry Land. The contemporary drama explores friendship, isolation and personal challenges faced by young people, and Pixie's performance demonstrated exceptional emotional depth, maturity and characterisation. 

Later in the evening, Jadie Muckle and Ronisha Warner delighted guests with beautiful performances of "Linger" by The Cranberries and "The Only Exception" by Paramore, showcasing the creativity and talent that thrive across the College's performing arts and music programmes. 

Throughout the evening, awards were presented to students from across the College's diverse curriculum, including A Levels, vocational programmes, T Levels, Pathways and Performance Sport. Students were recognised in subjects ranging from German, Philosophy, Ancient History and English Literature to Creative Media Production, Engineering, Health, Science, Business and many more. 

Special awards celebrating leadership, aspiration, industry engagement, student welfare, personal achievement and community contribution were also presented. 

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Henley Rotary Sponsorship Award, generously supported by the Henley Rotary Club. The award was presented by Jeremy Gaunt, President of the Rotary Club of Henley-on-Thames, and will support participation in the prestigious Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) programme. RYLA provides young people with opportunities to develop confidence, leadership, teamwork and communication skills through intensive leadership experiences and training. 

The first recipient of the award was Nina Govett, whose exceptional contribution to College life, leadership qualities and commitment to personal excellence made her a worthy winner. 

Nina was also presented with the prestigious Principal's Award, one of the highest honours awarded by The Henley College, recognising students who have made an exceptional contribution to the College community while achieving outstanding success in their studies. In addition, Nina received the award for German, further reflecting her academic excellence and dedication.

Among the evening's most successful students was Josh De La Warr, who achieved the rare distinction of receiving two subject awards, being recognised for his outstanding achievement in both Chemistry and Computer Science. Josh's academic excellence, commitment to his studies and consistent pursuit of the highest standards earned him recognition across two demanding disciplines. 

The College also celebrated the achievements of Olly Robinson, who was awarded a prestigious Principal's Award in recognition of his exceptional contribution, dedication and achievements during his time at The Henley College. The award reflects not only academic success but also the positive impact he has made within the wider College community. 

Creative Media Production award winner Tom McBain was praised for his outstanding contribution to the College's new TV studio, Performing Arts productions and sports media coverage. 

Curriculum Leader Sarah Wilson, who nominated Tom for the award, said: 

"Tom has been an exceptional student from day one. He has immersed himself in every aspect of College life and consistently gives 100% in everything he does. His talent, professionalism and enthusiasm will take him far, and we have no doubt he will excel in the live TV and sports production industry." 

The College was also delighted to welcome Isobel Morrow, representing the Henley Educational Trust, who presented the prestigious Brakspear Awards to Student Union President Meri Khan and Vice President Arabella Kilby-Birch. The awards recognised their outstanding leadership, advocacy and commitment to enhancing the student experience, representing the student voice and supporting fellow students throughout the academic year.  

Together with Principal's Award recipient Nina Govett, these students exemplify the ambition, resilience and commitment to excellence that characterise the Class of 2026. 

A particular highlight of the evening was the return of former student Nina Sparks, who delivered an inspirational keynote speech to students and guests. 

Nina studied at The Henley College before embarking on a remarkable sporting career that led her to become Great Britain's first female Paralympic snowboarder. Representing Team GB at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympic Games, she has become an inspiration to young people across the country through her determination, resilience and refusal to allow setbacks to define her ambitions. 

Reflecting on her journey, Nina spoke candidly about the challenges she had faced and encouraged students to remain focused on their aspirations. 

She said: "If you want to know the secret of success, never give up. When I was 17, I never imagined I would be standing here today giving an inspirational speech. Stay focused on your goals, work hard, be resilient and don't let anyone tell you what you can or cannot achieve. There will be setbacks along the way, but if you keep moving forward and stay committed to your ambitions, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible." 

The College was honoured to welcome a number of distinguished guests, including The Mayor of Henley-on-Thames, Councillor Ian Reissmann, governors, employers, alumni, community leaders and representatives from local organisations who joined staff and families in celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026. 

Principal Simon Spearman praised students for their achievements and the positive impact they have made during their time at the College. 

He said: 

"The Education Awards are one of the most important and rewarding evenings in the College calendar. They provide an opportunity to celebrate not only academic success, but also the resilience, determination, leadership, creativity and personal growth demonstrated by our students throughout their time with us. 

This evening has showcased the very best of The Henley College. Our students have achieved remarkable things, often overcoming significant challenges while supporting one another and making valuable contributions to College life. We are incredibly proud of every award winner and of all our students completing their studies this year. 

At The Henley College, our commitment to excellence and an outstanding student experience sits at the heart of everything we do. The achievements we celebrate this evening are a testament not only to the hard work of our students, but also to the support of their families, teachers, support staff and the wider College community. We wish them every success as they progress to university, apprenticeships, employment and exciting futures beyond Henley." 

The College would like to thank all sponsors, partners and supporters whose generosity helped make the evening possible, including Henley Educational Trust, Evolutio, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, Henley Society, Henley Hawks Rugby Club and Wycombe Wanderers Foundation. 

The Henley College would also like to thank students, families, staff, governors, sponsors, performers and special guests for helping to create a memorable evening celebrating achievement, aspiration and success. 

Well done to all of the winners.