South Bank Colleges is thrilled to celebrate Trevor Gordon, SBC's very own Programme Director, who has recently been honoured with the prestigious 'Trailblazer Award' at the 2024 Black Talent Awards. Held on 4th October at Birmingham's iconic ICC, the Black Talent Awards recognise exceptional individuals who are breaking barriers and championing diversity across various industries. Trevor's remarkable contribution to education, particularly in advancing equality and representation, has made him a worthy recipient of this accolade.
Reflecting on his achievement, Trevor shared that this award represents a significant milestone in his professional journey. He described feeling deeply moved by the recognition from his peers, noting it as a moment of "professional love" that will forever be etched in his memory. Trevor also expressed that he regards the award as much South Bank Colleges' as his own, acknowledging the institution's support of his work over the past few years. "The whole evening was incredible," Trevor said. "It was the best-organised and most impactful Black event I've ever attended." Such praise from a veteran of the education sector speaks volumes about the importance of the Black Talent Awards in celebrating and uplifting Black professionals.
This story is being published during Black History Month, but it is Trevor who has truly been marking it with his achievements. Trevor's career has been one of dedication and purpose, focused on driving equality in the education system. His professional journey includes significant leadership roles beyond South Bank Colleges, each contributing to his deep commitment to education and equality. Trevor served as Deputy Principal, Curriculum at Croydon College, where he increased student retention from 70% to 87% and overall student achievement from 72% to 90%. He designed and delivered successful teaching and learning initiatives for over 400 further and higher education establishments across the UK, including staff development training initiatives for 'Drive to Outstanding' in teaching and learning. Trevor also led the full refurbishment of the Learner Support Centre at Croydon College, a £7 million project aimed at enhancing student support services.
Prior to his time at Croydon College, Trevor was the Head of Equal Opportunity Services at Lambeth College from 1994 to 2001. During this period, he enabled the college to achieve a Grade 1 from OFSTED for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. Trevor designed and implemented a Community Inclusion Strategy that led to an 11% increase in community-based learning and a 17% increase in the number of women enrolling in construction courses. He proactively promoted the inclusion of underrepresented groups and local community participation in college services, managing a Community and Equalities training and development budget of £750,000.
Trevor's extensive experience also includes roles as Principal Equalities Officer at Lewisham Council, Senior Economic Development Officer at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, Special Projects Officer at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and Community Education & Relations Manager at the Inner London Education Authority. These roles have equipped Trevor with a wealth of experience in community education, equality, and economic development initiatives, all of which have informed his pioneering work at South Bank Colleges and beyond. His work has had a profound impact not only at South Bank Colleges but also at Ravensbourne University and an educational institution in Saudi Arabia, where he led initiatives to increase opportunities for underrepresented communities.
The Black Talent Awards, now in their third year, were established by Evenfields, an organisation dedicated to promoting diversity and connecting Black talent with inclusive employers across the UK. The Awards celebrate exceptional yet relatable role models whose achievements inspire others while paving the way for a more equitable future. This year's ceremony was hosted in Birmingham, bringing together inspiring leaders from across the country. Tim Campbell MBE, former winner of The Apprentice and a passionate advocate for young people, served as a brand ambassador, emphasising the Awards' mission to spotlight the often overlooked contributions of Black professionals.
Trevor's journey is a testament to the power of representation and the impact of equitable education. His work continues to inspire students, educators, and communities alike, showing what is possible when diversity is championed and nurtured. South Bank Colleges is proud to have Trevor as part of the team and looks forward to seeing how his work will continue to break new ground in education.
Congratulations to Trevor Gordon on this well-deserved recognition. His story is a powerful reminder of the difference that one dedicated individual can make, not just within an institution, but in the wider world of education.
