A STAR member of staff from Worcester Sixth-Form College has been recognised with a national award for her efforts.

Libby James, former head of student services at the college, received the award at the Quality Improvement Agency Star awards ceremony in London.

The Star awards is a national scheme launched in November 2003 and recognises the efforts of the unsung heroes who work in the education and skills sectors of public service.

Libby, aged 59, from Worcester, won the lifetime achievement category, sponsored by the Institute for Learning, for making such a difference to the thousands of students who have attended the college over the years.

She beat off stiff opposition from nearly 1,500 nominations to be one of 18 winners presented with the top prize of £2,000, a trophy and a certificate.

Libby, who spent 38 years in teaching, and 22 years as head of student services, was involved in arranging more than 800 work experience placements each year.

She said: "I'm thrilled and delighted. I retired at the end of the summer and so this award is timed just perfectly for me.

"It has been wonderful to have had the opportunity to help students to reach their potential and find success.

"I wish I could be back at work to celebrate with my colleagues at the college, who all work so hard."

Minister for Lifelong Learning, Further and Higher Education Bill Rammell said: "We value highly the contribution that individuals make to the success of the sector.

"We want to recognise them publicly and highlight their achievements for all to see. We want to be able to share and transfer their good practice across the whole sector and enable them to work with us to influence others."