SERC was awarded the WorldSkills UK Diversity and Inclusion Heroes Award for Network of the Year in the large employer category in a virtual ceremony recently. Pictured (L – R) Catherine Shipman, (Craigavon), Manager, with Student Engagement Officers Ross Currie (Belfast) and Anna Leahy (Saintfield).

South Eastern Regional College (SERC) which has a Downpatrick Campus has been honoured for its work in supporting the wellbeing of its students, ensuring an inclusive learning environment across its campuses in Northern Ireland.  The College was awarded the WorldSkills UK Diversity and Inclusion Heroes Award for Network of the Year in the large employer category in a virtual ceremony on 28 January.

The WorldSkills UK Diversity and Inclusion Heroes Awards, run in partnership with Coca-Cola European Partners, recognise outstanding commitment to promoting and supporting diverse and inclusive practices and celebrate those making a real difference.  Air Products sponsored the Network of the Year award in the large employer category.  

SERC found that because of a duplication of provision across its student support services, opportunities were being missed to enhance learning experiences.  To overcome this, the College established the Student Engagement Team to represent the views of all students.  Since its launch it has achieved significant outcomes, including delivering Action Mental Health training to over 1500 students and establishing a trans student support service.  In a first for a FE College in Northern Ireland, the team has secured £6000 to establish a wellbeing recovery room for students.

Catherine Shipman, Student Engagement Manager, SERC said, “ I am delighted that the Student Engagement Team has won this award, it pays tribute to our staff, students, volunteers and community partners for their hard work and dedication in championing equality and diversity for our students at SERC. We are privileged to be recognised for this achievement and are looking forward to growing our network and continuing to improve the lives of our students.”

Dr Neil Bentley-Gockmann OBE, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said, “Congratulations to South Eastern Regional College on their award win and the excellent work they are doing to make a real difference to the lives of students at the College.

“We were completely blown away by the number and quality of the inspiring entries.  We established these awards because we believe that all young people, regardless of their background, deserve the right to succeed through apprenticeships and high-quality technical education. These awards give us the opportunity to celebrate success with our partners who are making progress and achieving real impact and to showcase best practice so we can all learn from each other.”

For more information on WorldSkills UK’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion please visit: www.worldskillsuk.org/about-us/diversity-and-inclusion/