Gibraltar College recently held its 2026 Awards Ceremony in Catalan Bay.

A statement from the Government follows below:

Gibraltar College proudly celebrated the achievements of its learners, staff and wider community at its Annual Awards Ceremony 2026, held in the beautiful surroundings of Catalan Bay. 

The event brought together learners, families, staff, employer partners and guests to recognise academic excellence, personal achievement, resilience, leadership and contribution to College life. 

The ceremony was attended by the Minister for Education, The Hon Prof John Cortes, and the Director of Education, Keri Scott, both of whom presented a number of the evening's awards. 

Throughout the evening, learners were recognised for their commitment, perseverance and outstanding accomplishments across a wide range of categories including Academic Excellence, Best Overall Performance, Commitment, Attendance and Punctuality, Most Improved and the prestigious Roin Sampere Award for Resilience. 

The event also celebrated the success of Gibraltar College's growing work placement programme, which continues to strengthen the connection between education and employment. Through partnerships with local organisations and employers, learners are gaining valuable industry experience and developing the skills required to succeed in the workplace. 

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Gibraltar College's Young Enterprise team, who were crowned winners of the Gibraltar Company Programme before achieving an exceptional third place at the UK National Finals. Their success reflects the College's commitment to developing confident, entrepreneurial and well-rounded learners capable of thriving in an ever-changing world. 

The ceremony also recognised the contribution of the College's outgoing Student Ambassadors, whose leadership, commitment and representation of the College throughout the year have been exemplary. New Student Ambassadors were formally introduced and welcomed as they prepare to represent Gibraltar College during the 2026–2027 academic year. 

Guests were treated to outstanding performances from Gibraltar College/GAMPA Performing Arts and Music students, showcasing the creativity, talent and confidence that continue to flourish across the College. 

The ceremony also highlighted the continued development of Gibraltar College, including significant investment in learning environments, the expansion of vocational opportunities and ongoing planning for the future College campus, which will provide even greater opportunities for learners in the years ahead.

The College expressed its gratitude to Entain for its support in enhancing learning spaces across the College, as well as to Martha McComb, Juan and the team at Seawave Restaurant for hosting the event in the unique setting of Catalan Bay. 

As Gibraltar College continues to grow and evolve, the Awards Ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the College's vision: to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, experiences and opportunities needed to succeed not only in education and employment, but in life. 

Reflecting on the evening, Principal Daniel Benrimoj said: "Tonight was a celebration of everything that makes Gibraltar College special. Whilst we recognise academic achievement, we also celebrate resilience, determination, leadership, kindness and personal growth. Every learner has their own story and every award presented reflects hard work, perseverance and a commitment to success. 

"This has been a challenging but immensely rewarding year. Seeing our learners achieve, develop and embrace new opportunities reminds us why education matters. We are incredibly proud of every learner recognised this evening and look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future." 

Minister for Education John Cortes, who addressed those present, said: “Gibraltar now recognises the important place that the College plays in our Educational landscape. The increasing opportunities available, the response of the learners, and the achievements of the whole team speak for themselves. Above all I congratulate the staff and learners on their work and achievements. As we look forward to the new College at Europa Point, the future could not look better.” 

Academic Achievement award: 

Level 1: Neville Guilliano 

Level 2: Diamond Dalli 

Level 3 Y1: Arabella Duck 

Level 3 Y2: Sarah Wilkie 

Best Overall Performance award: 

Level 1: Khadija Bendaifa 

Level 2: Kelly Firth-Murison 

Level 3 Y1: Chloe Vazquez 

Level 3 Y2: Tristan Benyunes 

Roin Sampere Award for exceptional resilience in adversity: 

Level 2: Lillian Williams 

Level 3 YR 1: Jaleesa Gomez 

Level 3 YR 2: Elsa Parody 

Attendance and Punctuality Award:

Level 2: Evan Pereira 

Level 3 YR1: Door Menghani 

Commitment Award: 

Level 1: Matthew Wood 

Level 2: Cameron McGinley 

Level 3 YR1: Jessica Wallington 

Level 3 YR2: Ryan Polston 

Level 3 YR3: Celine Agripino Rasposo Most Improved Award: 

Level 1: Liselle tap 

Level 2: Naomi Benyunes 

Level 3 YR1: Joel Hedley 

Level 3 YR2: Lee Gordon 

Travel Counsellors Work Placement Award: Kayden Hedrick