Oaklands College Festival of Achievement 2026 Celebrates Student Success
This week, Oaklands College proudly hosted its Festival of Achievement Week 2026, welcoming students, parents and carers to celebrate the dedication, progress and accomplishments of our outstanding learners.
Across the week, we came together to recognise the achievements of students from across all curriculum areas. The ceremonies showcased the breadth of talent within Oaklands College, celebrating excellence in academic achievement, sporting success, personal development and professional skills.
The St Albans campus was filled with pride and celebration as staff, families and students gathered to recognise success across the College community.
Festival of Achievement Week 2026 included:
Monday – LIFE, Service Industries and A Levels
The week began with a celebration of LIFE, Service Industries and A Levels, recognising the achievements, progress and personal development of learners across these areas.
Olympic champion Matthew Weston presented awards and inspired students by sharing his own journey of success and determination. Congratulations also go to Lily, who was a proud recipient of the Matthew Weston Award.
The evening ceremony brought further celebration, recognising outstanding student achievements and marking a proud start to the week.
Tuesday – Creative Industries, Adult Learners, Higher Education and ESOL
Tuesday celebrated creativity and talent across our Creative Industries curriculum, recognising exceptional work in Art, Design, Media, Performing Arts, Music, Hair & Beauty and Fashion.
The evening ceremony celebrated our Adult Learners, Higher Education and ESOL students, highlighting powerful stories of perseverance, transformation and achievement through lifelong learning.
A special thank you to Thinkology for presenting the Most Commercially Relevant Creative Project Award 2026, with congratulations to Shaylah, the deserving recipient of this special recognition.
Wednesday – Construction, Engineering, Trades, Motor Vehicle, Health & Social Care and Early Years
Wednesday was dedicated to Construction Management, Engineering, Trades and Motor Vehicle, alongside curriculum areas at our Welwyn Garden City campus, including Health & Social Care and Early Years.
The celebrations highlighted technical skill, professionalism and the dedication of students preparing for vital roles across industry and the public sector.
Thursday – Professional Services
The final day celebrated Professional Services, including Business, Sport, Public Services, IT, Travel & Tourism and related pathways.
The day recognised the ambition, commitment and achievements of students developing skills for a wide range of careers in professional and service-led industries.
We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to our Festival of Achievement sponsors: Discover Digital, All Signs All Print, Sopwell House, Thinkology, HP, Mindful Education, Atlas FM Careers, Harrods Aviation, Herts & Beds Constructing Excellence Club, Ness M Care Services and The Complete Company. Your support helped make these celebrations truly special.
We would like to thank all staff, families and guests who supported the week and helped make it such a special celebration.
Most importantly, congratulations to every student who was recognised for their achievements. We are incredibly proud of everything you have accomplished.
