South Eastern Regional College held its annual Excellence Awards for the Lisburn and Ballynahinch campuses on 19 March at the Lisburn Campus. Students, staff, friends and family attended the event.

Guests arrived for a drinks reception. A short film featuring students followed. Certificates and awards recognised outstanding student achievements and staff success.

John Nugent, Chair of SERC’s Governing Body, presented the awards. Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council sponsored the Entrepreneur of the Year award. Drayne’s Farm sponsored the Community Champion of the Year award.

Councillor Jamie Harpur, Vice Chair of the Regeneration & Growth Committee at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, attended. Mark Brashier, SERC Student Governor, gave a vote of thanks.

Nuala Reid, SERC Governing Body member and Master of Ceremonies, stated the college recorded a 91% achievement rate across courses in the last academic year. She noted the college ranks as the highest achieving in Northern Ireland.

Reid highlighted four apprentices who competed in Skillbuild and Worldskills UK Finals in November, with one winning a medal. Hospitality students earned multiple medals at the IFEX food exhibition. Performing arts students succeeded at the NicMac dance competition.

Students gained acceptance to the Washington Ireland programme for young leaders. A student film appeared at the Cinemagic festival.

Reid expressed pride in the college and congratulated nominees and winners.