The event saw Northern Ireland's six further education colleges come together to recognise and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of students and staff who have made a significant contribution to further education.

During the evening, South West College students were recognised for their outstanding achievements across a range of further education pathways. Among those honoured was Patriece Gallagher, who received the FE Excellence Award in the Higher Level Apprenticeship Programme.

Studying Construction Engineering with Surveying, Patriece was recognised not only for her academic success but also for her commitment to promoting diversity within the construction sector and encouraging more women to pursue careers in the industry. Her achievements have also seen her participate in a prestigious summer programme at Penn State University.

Other student award winners included WorldSkills Bronze medallist Cathal Connolly, who received the FE Excellence Award in Entry Level Study, and Tristan McGrath, whose exceptional technical ability in Domestic Plumbing and Heating earned him the FE Excellence Award in Apprenticeship Training following his Highly Commended success at the WorldSkills UK National Final 2025.

Deborah Brown was also posthumously recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award in honour of her outstanding contribution to South West College over more than 20 years of dedicated service.

Nominated in recognition of the profound difference she made to colleagues, students and the wider college community, Deborah exemplified commitment, professionalism and kindness throughout her career.

Sadly, Deborah passed away in February following a courageous battle with cancer, shortly after being nominated for the award. The recognition serves as a lasting tribute to her service, legacy and the impact she had on those around her.

Now in its second year, the evening saw almost 50 students recognised at the awards ceremony at the Glenavon Hotel, with award categories reflecting the wide spectrum of learning levels and pathways available across the further education sector, from introductory and supported learning to apprenticeships, higher education and lifelong learning.

South West College student Kate Grant welcomed guests on the evening. A model and advocate from Cookstown, Kate made history in 2018 by becoming the first model with Down’s syndrome to win an international beauty title.

She has since continued to be a transformative force in the fashion industry and a role model across further education.

The ceremony was also opened by Director of Further Education at the Department for the Economy, Janis Scallon, who gave an address.

Janis Scallon, Director of Further Education, DfE, said:

“Our further education sector plays a vital role in our economic and social progress. Through strong partnerships with industry and across government, colleges equip people with the skills to succeed, support business growth, and contribute to a more inclusive, productive and regionally balanced economy.

“The sector continues to deliver strong outcomes in a challenging financial context, demonstrating strong value for money while responding to increasing demand.

“The Further Education Awards are an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our colleges and those who contribute to their success. At a time when skills have never been more important, it is right that we acknowledge this contribution and maintain our shared ambition to go further - improving outcomes, widening opportunity, and ensuring the sector remains central to our local economy.”

Celine McCartan, Principal at South West Regional College said:

“I would like to congratulate our student and staff award winners, whose achievements highlight the incredible talent, determination and ambition that exists across our college.

“From apprentices and higher-level apprentices achieving success on regional, national and international stages, to students excelling in higher education and lifelong learning, they demonstrate the transformative opportunities Further Education provides.

“Their success is an inspiration to current and future learners, and a testament to the strength of our college community.”