Announcing 2024’s Morley Fellows and Award winners

The Governing Body of Morley College London is today announcing the recipients of two Fellowships and two special Awards, to be presented at a special ceremony four weeks from today.

The recipients will receive their accolades at the annual Morley Awards ceremony, which also recognises the achievements of staff, and of students based in the college’s three main teaching sites in North Kensington, Chelsea and Waterloo, and at its Stockwell community hub.

Recipients were selected by the Governing Body based on nominations by governors, staff, students, Fellows and former Award recipients.

Awards

The Inspire Ambition Award is made to an individual or individuals who in life and work have inspired others to learn.

In 2024, the award goes to the professional partnership of Janine Irons OBE and Dr. Gary Crosby OBE, who receive the award on the basis of their transformative work as co-founders of Tomorrow’s Warriors. Janine and Gary’s dedication to nurturing young musicians has had a profound local and global impact, shaping the future of jazz education and performance.

The nomination noted that Tomorrow’s Warriors’ ethos of ‘Each One, Teach One’ (of passing on jazz traditions while encouraging innovation) matches Morley’s own commitment to quality education, and the success of Tomorrow’s Warriors alumni – like Mercury Prize winners Ezra Collective – highlights the enduring legacy of Janine and Gary’s efforts.

The Learning for Life Award is made to an individual who in life and work has inspired others to learn.

In 2024, the award goes to Janet Vaux, who as editor of Morley Magazine between 2015 and 2023, both modernised its typography and design and ensured editorial and content of the highest quality.

Janet also edited the 2012 Morley College Rambling Club publication, “Morley College Rambling Club: The First One Hundred Years 1912–2012,” undertaking comprehensive historical research, and contributing four contemporary photographs to the book. The nomination noted that both publications elevate the college’s profile and celebrate its achievements.

Fellowships

Fellowships are awarded to individuals who have been members of the college community as students, members of staff or governors, and recognise an outstanding contribution to the life of the college.

Annette Welch was Programme Area Manager for Ceramics at the Waterloo Centre for Adult Education, presiding over a rich variety of ceramics courses during her years of service.

The nomination noted that:

• Students are drawn to Annette’s classes for her inspiring instruction and the supportive environment she creates, defined by critical thinking, group discussions, and exposure to diverse artists.
• Annette’s commitment spans decades, from technician to esteemed teacher.
• Annette cultivates creativity in students of all ages and abilities, exemplifying Morley’s ethos of lifelong learning and inclusion.

Jonathan Slater served as a Morley Governor from August 2021 to November 2023, making a significant impact during a challenging transition due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The nomination noted that:

• As a member of the Finance, Resources, and Sustainability Committee, Jonathan brought clear insights and student-centric focus.
• Leveraging his extensive experience as a former Permanent Secretary for the Department for Education and in various senior roles in public service, including in the Cabinet Office and Ministry of Defence, Jonathan provided invaluable support and challenge to college leadership.
• This fellowship reflects Jonathan’s ongoing commitment to the College.

Special mention

The Governing Body were also keen to recognise the contribution of former Director of Music Gustav Holst, who served with the college from 1907 until 1924, a period during which he composed his most celebrated work, The Planets.

Throughout 2024, the college is marking 150 years since the birth of Holst.

Joining the celebration

Friends of Morley can enter a lottery to win tickets to attend the Morley Awards evening – taking place at the Park Plaza Riverbank on the evening of Monday 8 July 2024 – by clicking on the link in the newsletter sent out on Friday 7 June. Closing date: 6pm, Thursday 27 June 2024.

To join the Friends of Morley mailing list please visit https://staging.morleycollege.ac.uk/contact/ and select “Sign up to the Friends of Morley newsletter”.