London South East Colleges (LSEC) was the standout institution among a list of incredible further education providers at this year’s Tes FE Awards.

In 2019-20, LSEC went above and beyond to provide opportunities for its students. These included a partnership with Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust to support the Covid-19 vaccination rollout by creating a workforce development programme, which then provided exciting career pathways for learners locally. Students also benefited from outstanding employer engagement and gained virtual work placements at PwC, Willmott Dixon and Ofcom, to name just a few.

During the first lockdown, the group set up a local authority special educational needs and disability hub at its Bexley Campus to ensure that vulnerable students had face-to-face provision as and when needed. Staff also worked tirelessly to provide content for the National Oak Academy.

Derwen College at the Tes FE Awards 2021

Rochdale Sixth Form College wins at the FE Awards 2021

Norfolk County Council wins at the Tes FE Awards 2021

Time and time again, LSEC took the lead on sector-wide issues - including equality, diversity and inclusion - and pioneered forward-thinking initiatives that could be replicated across the UK. And the work in its local community - especially with FE Foodbank Friday - had a clear and lasting impact during what was a truly difficult time for many.

The judges praised chief executive Sam Parrett, who was named FE leader of the year at the Tes FE awards 2020, for her outstanding leadership.

They said: “London South East Colleges is doing superb work across a whole range of areas: community, employers, and equality, diversity and inclusion. It sees itself as a civic organisation within a substantial region and is completely of its community.

“The college has been a sector leader on a number of issues and, particularly in the past 18 months, it has done some amazing things. LSEC thoroughly deserves this award.”