Pearson, the digital education company, today recognised the achievements of students studying for BTEC qualifications at the eighth annual BTEC Awards at Central Hall Westminster, London.

Spanning 24 categories, the Pearson BTEC Awards were hosted by financial journalist and TV Presenter Steph McGovern and showcased the fantastic contributions made by students and young people studying for BTECs. The ceremony was attended by the winners, their families and teachers as well as leading stakeholders from the education and business worlds. An expert panel of 52 judges carefully considered each nominee before deciding upon a winner.

Leaders from the world of education and business joined with entrepreneurs, MPs and celebrities to share the 24 winners’ stories and present them with their Awards. Double Olympic Gold medallist Max Whitlock presented the Award for BTEC Sports Student of the Year 2018 and showcased his amazing talent with an impromptu performance on the pommel horse.

Also performing on the day were the five winners of the Showstopper Challenge, groups from colleges offering BTECs in the performing arts: Arts1, Pik’n’Mix, Hamilton Mix, Aurimas and Shemaiah.

Pearson has been the guardian of BTECs for over 30 years and during this time the qualifications have facilitated the training of work-ready candidates with the knowledge and practical skills that employers need. These hands-on vocational qualifications continue to be respected as a valuable route straight into employment, and into employment via university.

Rod Bristow, President of Pearson in the UK, said:

“I want to offer my congratulations to all of the winners and everyone who was nominated for a BTEC Award this year. This is a wonderful celebration, not just of the outstanding winners themselves but of the value of the BTEC qualification to employers and universities around the world.

“Learners today face a rapidly changing landscape - as trends in labour patterns, technology and industry alter the way we work and live. Now, more than ever, I believe the broad, career-focused education that BTEC offers reflects the reality that the global economy doesn’t just value what people know; it values what they can do.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

About Pearson

Pearson is the world’s learning company, with expertise in educational courseware and assessment, and a range of teaching and learning services powered by technology. Our mission is to help people make progress through access to better learning. We believe that learning opens up opportunities, creating fulfilling careers and better lives. For more visit www.pearson.com.

The final judging panel was comprised of:

• Cindy Rampersaud: Senior Vice President, BTEC and Apprenticeships, Pearson
• Colette Burgess: BTEC Teacher of the Year 2017 and Course Director, West Suffolk College
• Derek Richardson: Vice President, Responsible Officer Quality Services & Governance, Pearson
• Ellen Morgan: Vice President Higher Education Services, Pearson
• Manos Kapterian: Chief Operating Officer, Core Markets, Pearson
• Shane Mann: Managing Director, Lsect Ltd - publisher of Schools Week & FE Week
• Sharon Hague: Senior Vice President, Schools, Pearson