As part of Staff Development Week earlier this summer, Inspire Education Group (IEG), comprised of Peterborough College, Stamford College and University Centre Peterborough, hosted a remarkable Staff Conference and Staff Awards ceremony at the Kingsgate Conference Centre in Peterborough. In recognition of her hard work as a Lecturer in Health & Social Care, Rebecca Kawalec was awarded the Outstanding Contribution by a Member of Staff in their First Year trophy.

The award category acknowledged employees that have joined Inspire Education Group within the last twelve to eighteen months and have ‘hit the ground running’. Nominations from fellow staff members recognised the hard work of tens of new recruits, but one individual came out on top.

As noted in Rachel Nicholls’, Chief Executive Officer at IEG, awarding speech, “Rebecca’s journey within IEG began in Autumn 2022 as a Learning Support Assistant, but she soon realised she’d love to teach. Rebecca has worked tirelessly to ensure her students have the best College experience possible, equipping them with not just the knowledge and skills to work in health and social care, but also encouraging them to become valuable members of their communities”. Rachel concluded, “Students are at the heart of everything Rebecca does. She has developed the craft for teaching and is a real credit to IEG. Well done”.

Rebecca was delighted to be recognised with this award: “I felt humbled, honoured and completely surprised! It took a while to sink in, and when did it, my goodness – what wonderful recognition. It has been a busy year at College – my first of year of teaching!”. She continued, “Before I worked for IEG, I studied Psychology with the Open University, alongside volunteering at Samaritans in Peterborough. I also have experience working in the care industry within nursing homes and the organisation Home Smart. But I’ve found a love teaching – inspiring students, guiding them and helping them to believe in themselves. Seeing them grow, gain a qualification and develop their skills is the best reward”.

Congratulations to Rebecca, her fellow winners and to all nominees of the Inspire Education Group Staff Awards 2022-2023.