The hard work and dedication of outstanding students has been celebrated at an annual awards ceremony.

The event, at Southend Adult Community College, in Ambleside Drive, Southend, recognised the talent and contribution of 19 pupils, staff, employers, partners and community groups.

Category winners were given awards in a range of categories, including commitment, personal goals, or continuing to learn through difficult circumstances.

Anew prize – the Susan D’Ath Award – was also given inmemory of a former college governor who served for more than 30 years at the college and had a particular passion for helping young adults with profound and complex learning disabilities.

Speaking at the fourth annual Southend Adult Community College awards ceremony, principal Stephen Lay said: “Events like this are an important part of college life.

“They celebrate success, raise the college’s profile in the local community and showcase good practice.

“We hope others will be inspired to take up further learning or training after hearing about the success of the award winners.

“In these tough economic times, it is heartening to see that our learners have not let them get in their way. In fact, it has made them more determined to succeed in their chosen courses.

“They should all be very proud of what they have achieved”.