Ryebridge director Daniel Coyle presented the former principal of Luton Sixth Form College with a Lifetime Achievement Award at this month’s Luton Best Awards.
Chris Nicholls, who retired from his 40-year career in education last year, was presented with the top accolade in recognition of his “far-reaching achievements in the community”.
The category, sponsored by Ryebridge, was a highlight at the Luton Best Awards – an annual event designed to recognise the achievements, work and valuable contribution of the heroes in the local community.
Ryebridge director Daniel Coyle said: “What an exceptional evening, packed full of extraordinary people who have done extraordinary things in our community. We are proud to have again supported the event – and look forward to continuing our support in the years to come.”
Award winner Mr Nicholls began his teaching career in 1980 at Pate’s Grammar School in Cheltenham, where he taught economics. Ten years later he moved on to St George’s British International School in Rome, before returning to the UK in 1994 to teach at Denefield School in Reading.
In 1998 Mr Nicholls became head of sixth form at Queensbury Upper School in Dunstable, and from 2004 worked as a school improvement adviser for Bedfordshire County Council.
He joined Luton Sixth Form College in 2008 as Vice Principal, becoming Principal in the summer of 2012.
Reflecting on his time in Luton he said: “I count the last 10 years at Luton Sixth Form College as the most rewarding of my career. It has been a real privilege to be able to serve the community here and every day has brought new experiences and challenges.
“The college does a fantastic job of meeting the needs of the young people and families of Luton and I am confident that it will go from strength to strength in the future.”
Guests at the Luton Best Awards enjoyed a champagne reception, three-course meal and a glittering awards ceremony. Additional funds were raised via a charity raffle and auction and are being donated to local good causes.
