Suffolk New College staff nominated for national awards

Liam Cannon and Rosie Rawlins-Waumsley, who are both progress tutors at the Ipswich-based college, were nominated for a 'Good For Me- Good for FE' award.

They were recognised for their efforts at a national awards ceremony held inside the House of Lords. 

Liam and Rosie with their Good For Me- good for FE awards (Image: Suffolk New College)Liam was shortlisted for a 'long service award' for his efforts over the past four years working on several social action projects. 

This includes a music concert that highlighted the importance of funding for the arts. 

Liam Cannon said: “It was great that the work that we do is happening all over the country.

"It’s all supporting young people to make positive change in their communities.

"The fact that we were the only college from the Eastern region to be recognised at this event was an honour. It’s great to be recognised nationally."

Liam with his Good For Me- Good for FE award (Image: Suffolk New College) Rosie was a finalist in the 'inspirational role model of the year' section because of a number of projects including a student-led second hand thrift shop initiative that raised money for Lighthouse Women's Aid and The Bus Shelter in Ipswich. 

Both of them were up against two others in their categories and both received runners up plaques and certificates. 

Rosie Rawlins-Waumsley said: “It was a nice opportunity to be surrounded by like-minded people working in the same sector as us and hear about some of the inspirational work that is taking place in further education.

"It has inspired me to go away and do more work like this in the future." 

Rosie with her Good For Me- Good for FE award (Image: Suffolk New College) In the same week, the principal and CEO of Suffolk New College attended the Association of Colleges (AoC) annual winter parliamentary reception that was held in the Cholmondsley Room of the House of Lords. 

AoC launched a paper during the event called 'mission accepted' that will ensure colleges across the country contribute to the government's big five priorities. 

This includes meeting skills needs and helping students become good citizens. 

Alan Pease with Jack Abbott MP at the AoC event (Image: Suffolk New College) Alan Pease, the principal of Suffolk New College, met up with Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, and Adrian Ramsey, MP for Waveney Valley, to help emphasise the important impact the college has had on the many communities it supports. 

Alan Pease with Adrian Ramsey MP for AoC event (Image: Suffolk New College) Mr Pease will be launching a new college strategy on January 17, 2025, to help reinforce the work the college does in terms of supporting local people, charities, businesses and the government.