Outstanding staff from across the College of West Anglia were recognised at the 2025 CWA Staff Awards, with the event celebrating the people and teams helping drive the College forward. The awards, held at the corn exchange, highlighted excellence across both teaching and support roles.  

The evening recognised colleagues nominated by their peers for their commitment, creativity and impact. Categories included Exceptional Contribution, Leadership, Team of the Year, Unsung Hero and Ambition Champions.  

David Pomfret, Principal and CEO of the College of West Anglia said, “Our staff make an extraordinary difference to learners every single day, often in ways that are never fully seen or recognised. These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the professionalism, compassion and commitment that exists across the college community. The impact of further education goes far beyond qualifications. It is built on the relationships staff create the support they provide and the belief they instil in students to succeed, progress and realise their potential. At a time when the education sector continues to face significant challenges, it is important that we recognise the people whose dedication continues to strengthen opportunities for learners, employers and the wider communities we serve.”

Here is a list of winners and runners-up of this year’s staff awards:

Ambition Champion 1: Delivering Outstanding Learner Success

Winner: Sarah Smith
Runners-Up: Caroline Sadler and Phoebe Cox

Ambition Champion 2: Impact Positively on Social and Economic Prosperity

Winner: Claire Bellham

Runners-Up: Maz Bills and Catherine Harris

Ambition Champion 3: Develop a Culture of Support, Inclusivity, Empowerment, and High Performance

Winner: Jamie Baker

Runners-Up: Natasha Elding and Matty Jessop

Ambition Champion 4: Use of Our Resources to Achieve Maximum Impact

Winner: John Felmingham

Runners-Up: Alex Harrison and Aaron Pettican

Team of the Year

Winner: Endeavour

Runners-Up: Public Protective Services

The Leadership Award:

Winner: Domminie Wright

Runners-Up: Michelle Blake and Jane Burton

Unsung Hero

Winner: Gemma Everitt

Runners-Up: Amanda Follen, Marie Parry, Sophie Goodacre and Ruth Satur

Exceptional Contribution

Winners: The One College Walking Team – Michelle Blake, Clare Pelling, Neal Daultrey, Scott Leadley, Julie Robinson, Lucas Cooper and Angharad Ward.

Kelly-Ann Neale

Hannah Barrett

Runners-Up: Anthony Ankers and Paul Leeper