Term may be over, but The Henley College looked to the future and celebrated the Class of 2020 last week with video messages from famous faces and the annual Education Awards.
Learning during these unprecedented times has been a huge undertaking for students and teachers alike, but The Henley College’s students have risen to the challenge taking remote learning in their stride, and have been recognised for their achievements.
Famous faces from the worlds of entertainment and sports recorded special video messages wishing graduating students luck for the future and welcoming prospective students who will be starting at the College this Autumn. Messages of support were recorded by professional rugby players with the Ealing Trailfinders Steven Shingler and Craig Hampson, who will be coaching the Rugby Elite Player Programme next year, local music legend Carol Decker, whose two children both attended the college, Strictly Come Dancing’s Musical Director, and former College student, Dave Arch, BBC Berkshire presenter Anoushka Williams, and Patron of the College classicist and broadcaster Natalie Haynes. You can view all of the video messages here >>
The College’s annual Education Awards were held via Zoom with special guest, Henley’s Mayor Ken Arlett. The awards recognise achievement as well as effort, enterprise and service to the college community. 48 students studying subjects ranging from Ancient History to Politics were awarded after being nominated by their college tutors. Stephanie Preston and Emily Foster were also awarded the Principal’s Awards for their outstanding contribution to the College.
Alongside her studies Stephanie was made Equality Diversity Inclusion Officer and has worked tirelessly with Student Services and tutors to make The Henley College an environment where every student, regardless of gender, race or religion feel that they that their voices are heard on all levels. Her tutors describe her impact on the college community as profound and she has been selected from thousands of applicants to partake in Stonewall’s Youth Summit to discuss with 100 like-minded students how they could best tackle LGBT+ inequality amongst young people.
Student President Emily has been involved with a vast number of committees and became a real asset to Student Services during her time at the College, liaising with the principle, governors and external agencies including Ofsted. She has been an outstanding and invaluable member of the College community making changes to the Welcome Day, Equality Diversity Inclusion, Enrichment, and Student Behaviour, as well as being involved in the College’s theatre community, stage managing productions and offering technical help. Both students have made an indelible mark on the College community for the benefit of future students.
