A member of staff from City of Bristol College has received a ‘highly commended’ prize at the 2009 national Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) STAR awards.

Richard Martin, Learning Organiser and Facilitator, was shortlisted for the ‘Teaching, Training and Learning Practitioner (peer nomination)’ award. Richard received the ‘highly commended’ prize in front of more than 500 guests at the award ceremony in London.

Helping the disadvantaged

Richard Martin works within inner city communities and in deprived areas of Bristol to ensure that disadvantaged and disengaged young people and adults achieve their full potential. Richard’s innovative approach ensures that his learners are motivated, regardless of their background, and he is a trusted driving force in helping them to effect change.

Commenting on his prize, Richard said: “I am delighted to have received this commendation for doing something that I really enjoy: it’s very rewarding to help a young person or an adult succeed in finding work. This prize shows that helping people to achieve is important – not just to individual learners or the local community, but on a national level, too.”

Les Caunce, Head of Human Resources at City of Bristol College, said: “Richard’s prize reflects his unflagging dedication and commitment to the sector. His inspiration and support has helped so many individuals to achieve their full potential and become determined to succeed, and we are very proud of his achievement.”

Sparkle Auditions

Also attending the award ceremony were students from City of Bristol College’s media and makeup courses. The students showcased theatrical body art designs around the theme of 'planets'. They gained the opportunity to perform at the national STAR award ceremony after being named runners-up at the LSIS ‘Sparkle Auditions’.