Beacon Awards
Chosen by students, celebrating achievements
The Beacon Awards highlight the incredible students and staff in our community at the University of Plymouth, nominated and chosen by students.
This award ceremony combines multiple areas of the student experience at Plymouth. Together we take time to celebrate the work of students through their extra curricular activities, their academic representation work and the recognition of the fantastic staff that support them.
By celebrating as one award we will be bringing together our community to recognise the work that often happens behind the scenes to help students get the most out of their time at Plymouth.
Categories
Student nomination categories:
- Outstanding Contribution Award
- Activity of the Year Award
- Fundraiser of the Year Award
- Student Representative of the Year Award
- Community Impact Award
- Society of the Year Award
- Sports Club of the Year Award
Student nomination categories:
- Resilience Award
- Academic Staff Member of the Year Award
- Supervisor of the Year Award
- Support Staff of the Year Award
- Half Colours
- Full Colours
Staff member nomination categories:
- Staff Choice Award
- Resilience Award
- Community Impact Award
- Student Representative of the Year Award
Nominations open
6 February 2026
Nominations close
6 March 2026
Awards ceremony
30 April 2026
For any queries and questions, you can contact: info@su.plymouth.ac.uk
Awards highlights
Beacon Awards 2025: winners
“This evening is a celebration of the passion, dedication and hard work that makes our University such a dynamic and inspiring place. With an impressive 502 nominations this year, it's clear that our community continues to grow stronger and more impactful every day.”
Josh Frost, VP Activities 2024/25
Our 2025 winners
Beacon Awards 2024
UPSU launched the Beacon Awards which were held on 30 April, in celebration and honour of the incredible students and staff in our community at the University of Plymouth.
“We're thrilled to gather to honour the exceptional achievements of our vibrant community in sports, societies, volunteering, and academic excellence. Tonight, we shine a spotlight on the dedication, passion, and impact of individuals and groups who have illuminated our campus with their remarkable contributions.”
Tonari Arikekpar, SU President