Nominations are now open for the Scottish Qualifications Authority’s 2019 Star Awards, SQA’s annual celebration of excellence in education, and training.

The SQA is seeking entries across thirteen categories which recognise the achievements of the individuals working towards its qualifications, as well as the schools, colleges, training providers, and employers and the people that deliver them.

The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony in November at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Amongst the young people from across the capital who received accolades at last year’s awards was Edinburgh College student Niamh Curran.

Niamh, a HND Graphic Design student, was Highly Commended in Young Person of the Year category. She has been a champion for the creative industries, after being tasked by Leith-based design firm ThreeBrand to create a strategy for engaging school pupils and introducing them to the career opportunities available in the creative industries.

Niamh launched the Graphic Design Ambassadors project, in which design students visited local schools to work with S3 pupils and share their experiences of working on a creative courses at college. Through Niamh’s enthusiasm and commitment the project has developed into the Daydream Believers Schools Engagement programme, which is transforming how schools, colleges, and employers work together to develop the future creative workforce.

Also among those celebrating at last year’s awards were two city pupils who were highly commended in the Academic Excellence Award. Former George Heriot’s pupil David Miedzybrodzki, and Jack Liddall, a former Trinity Academy pupil, were both recognised for their outstanding academic results.

Meanwhile Currie resident Ann Morgan Thomas, was named SQA Appointee of the Year. Every year SQA relies upon thousands of appointees – teachers, lecturers, and other education and training specialists, to deliver its portfolio of qualifications.

Ann was delighted to lift the trophy at last year’s awards, saying: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be named Appointee of the Year. It feels great!”

Theresa McGowan, SQA Regional Manager for Edinburgh, said: “Be inspired by Edinburgh’s amazing success at last year’s awards, and submit a nomination this year. The SQA Star Awards are an excellent opportunity for you to celebrate the achievements of learners, schools, colleges, training providers and employers across the city.”

Nominate for SQA Star Awards 2019 by Friday 28 June at www.sqa.org.uk/star.