The 2012 Podium Awards
This website was created solely for announcing and promoting the Podium Awards event. When the site's domain expired and it once again became available I bought it with the goal of recreating as much of its original content as possible from archived pages. Even though the specific usefulness of the site, as it was intended has ended, this was a gala event whose presence on the internet, I believe, should still be available.
To those who discover this podiumawards2012.com website, please consider the information on the site for historical purposes. Those who attended the ceremony will have a nostalgic walk through the days leading up to the event, as well as being able to reminisce about actual Awards evening. Enjoy.
The Podium Awards was a distinguished, one-time-only celebration recognizing the vital role colleges and universities across the UK have played in delivering the London 2012 Games. I happened to attend since the company I worked for in London was a sponsor. I have since returned to the US where I now work for a social media company helping online e-commerce sites reach out to more people. We offer Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram advice.
NOW back to the actual 2012 Podium Awards content.....
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THE 2012 PODIUM AWARDS
The Podium Awards forms part of Universities Week 2012 which takes place from 30 April - 7 May and will recognize Higher Education's contribution to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Podium will be hosting a glamorous Awards Evening on 3 May 2012 to showcase the very best of the Further and Higher Education sectors. The Podium Awards Evening will take place at Forman's Fish Island overlooking the London 2012 Olympic Stadium. Our Awards Evening will take place the day before the British Universities & Colleges Sport Outdoor Athletics Championships (4-7 May 2012). This will be the official test event for the 2012 Olympic Stadium and will involve over 40,000 spectators watching the very best of student sport.
Podium is working in partnership with Universities UK and British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) as part of Universities Week 2012.
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Awards Evening
The Podium Awards Evening will take place at Forman’s Fish Island which boasts unparalleled views of the London 2012 Olympic Stadium, a roof terrace and world famous smoked salmon and seasonal British foods.
Forman's Fish Island
Stour Road
Fish Island
London E3 2NT
Nearest Underground Station: Stratford
The Schedule
The Podium Awards Evening will consist of:
- 6.30pm - Drinks Reception and Networking
- 7.15pm - Dinner
- 8.45pm - Award Ceremony
- 10.00pm - Conclusion of Award Ceremony
- 11.00pm - Close
There will be Keynote speakers throughout the Podium Awards Evening and further details will be announced shortly.
Dress Code
The Podium Awards Evening will be a Black Tie event.
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Applications now open!
Applications for the Podium Awards are now open! Please visit our Awards Categories for further information on each award and for details on how you can nominate.
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Awards Categories
Podium has received more than 200 nominations for diverse Olympic and Paralympic Games related projects, programmes and partnerships produced by Further and Higher Education providers across the UK.
For a complete list of those projects that will be fighting it out for Gold Medals please click on the following categories below:
- The Award for Outstanding Sporting Project
- The Award for Creative Cultural Project
- The 'Get Set' Award for Inspiring Outstanding Learning through the London 2012 Games
- The Award for Inspirational Skills Project
- The 'British Council' Award for Innovative International Collaboration (FE only)
- The 'British Council' Award for Innovative International Collaboration (HE only)
- The 'RCUK' Award for Exceptional Research Contribution
- The 'Be a Champion' Award for Successful Student Led Activity
- The Award for Invaluable Volunteering Project
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Vote for Coubertin's Olympic Vision Award
You can now vote for the prestigious ‘Coubertin’s Olympic Vision’ Award. This award, voted upon by the public, acknowledges the project that most lives up to the ideals of the founder of the modern Olympics, Pierre de Coubertin.
Please view the short videos of the six outstanding projects, selected by the Podium Awards judging panel, before casting your vote. The project with the most votes wins so make sure you tell your friends, family, work colleagues and anyone else to get online and vote for ‘Coubertin’s Olympic Vision’ Award!
Six outstanding projects have been short listed for the prestigious ‘Coubertin’s Olympic Vision’ Award as part of the Podium Awards Evening. Voted upon by the public, this award acknowledges the project that most lives up to the ideals of the founder of the modern Olympics, Pierre de Coubertin.
The winner of 'Coubertin's Olympic Vision' will be announced as the finale of the Podium Awards Evening on 3 May 2012.
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Sponsor the Podium Awards
The Podium Awards presents fantastic opportunities for companies to sponsor what will be the definitive London 2012 inspired event for the Further and Higher Education sectors.
We are offering a variety of sponsorship packages:
Awards Evening sponsor (headline sponsor)
Stand out from the crowd by being the headline sponsor of this one-off Awards evening.
Detailed below are the highlights of the headline sponsorship package but we are more than happy to tailor the package to meet your requirements:
Pre-event exposure
- Sponsor logo on Podium Awards website and on all marketing materials
- Sponsor logo on Awards programme
- Name, profile and sponsor’s web address listed on the ‘Sponsor’ page and the ‘Awards’ pages of the event website
- Dedicated e-shot for sponsor sent to all booked guests
- Attendee list
- Use of the event logo and web link for marketing purposes i.e. promote on sponsor’s website
- Logo on Awards dinner invites
At the event
- Primary branding of drinks reception and dinner hall
- Name, logo and profile printed on dinner table menus
- Opportunity to offer corporate gifts (goody bags) at drinks reception or at each place setting for dinner
- Opportunity to supply additional branding for the drinks reception and dinner hall
- Acknowledgement of sponsor during the evening
- Opportunity for speaking slot for sponsor during the evening
- Individual sponsor of one of the Awards (*see Award option below for full details)
- Reserved dinner table (including 4 sponsor places and 1 VIP invitation)
- Attendee list
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Individual Award sponsor (x8)
Opportunity to sponsor any of the eight award categories*.
The Awards will be announced individually as part of the Awards Ceremony and each sponsor can enjoy primary branding during their award presentation.
Pre-event exposure
- Opportunity to name and shape the theme of the Award (subject to availability and agreement with Podium)
- Launch and management of the award campaign, advertised on the dedicated event website and on Podium website
- Seat on judging panel for award short listing process
- Name on Awards programme
- Name, logo, profile and link to sponsor’s website on the ‘Awards’ page and the event website
- Use of the event logo and web link for marketing purposes i.e. promote on sponsor’s website
- Attendee List
At the event
- Name, logo and profile included in the Awards programme
- Two invitations to the Awards Evening
- Opportunity for sponsor representative to present the award to the winner and runners up
- Acknowledgement of sponsor during the dinner
- Sponsor logo featured on holding slide during award presentation
- Sponsor logo featured on the award
- Winner receives a minimum of £1000 prize money/grant (included in sponsorship fee), to ensure that the project and your company has a tangible living legacy.
- Attendee List
If you are interested in becoming the headline sponsor for the prestigious Podium Awards or for one of the individual awards please contact Tom Marsh to discuss these opportunities further:
T: 020 7664 4837 or 07824 412 700
E: tom@podium.ac.uk
Engagement and Events Manager, Podium
Please note that the prices quoted reflect the package benefits and level of exposure that the sponsor would get but we would be more than happy to explore different options .
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*Award Categories
- The Award for Outstanding Sporting Project
- The Award for Creative Cultural Project
- The Award for Excellent Educational Project
- The Award for Inspirational Skills Project
- The Award for Innovative International Collaboration
- The Award for Exceptional Research Contribution
- The Award for Successful Student Led Activity
- The Award for Invaluable Volunteering Project
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UPDATE
The Podium Awards, hosted by Channel 4 presenter Rick Edwards, was attended by more than 350 guests and recognized the sporting, educational and creative projects of more than 27 institutions from across the UK
Congratulations to all of the Podium Awards winning projects on their exceptional work.
The 230 projects nominated all serve as a tremendous example of how the power of the Games is being used to inspire people to make a real and lasting difference.
Winners-
SkillsActive was crowned winner of the prestigious Gold Medal for the ‘Award for Invaluable Volunteering Project’ at the 2012 Podium Awards on Thursday, May 3, 2012.
Hackney Community College staff and students received three awards at the Podium 2012 Awards for further and higher education’s work inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
More Background on PodiumAwards2012.com
The internet is home to countless event-specific websites, many of which commemorate particular moments in history or celebrate unique achievements. One such example is PodiumAwards2012.com, a site originally dedicated to the Podium Awards, a prestigious, one-off event recognizing the contributions of UK colleges and universities to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While the original site functioned as a promotional and informational hub, its current incarnation serves as a digital archive, preserving the memory and impact of the event for future generations.
Ownership and History
PodiumAwards2012.com was established to announce and promote the Podium Awards, an event that formed a core part of Universities Week 2012, which ran from April 30 to May 7, 2012. The awards were designed to celebrate the vital role played by further and higher education institutions across the UK in supporting and delivering the London 2012 Games. The event was organized in partnership with major UK organizations such as Universities UK and British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS). These details are corroborated by independent press releases and university communications, which highlight the awards’ focus on recognizing projects inspired by the Olympics.
After the original promotional period ended and the domain expired, PodiumAwards2012.com was acquired by a new owner who sought to reconstruct and preserve the site’s original content using archived materials. This effort was motivated by a desire to maintain the historical record of the event, ensuring that the achievements and stories of the participants remain accessible online.
Location and Proximity
The Podium Awards ceremony was held at Forman’s Fish Island, a renowned venue in East London known for its panoramic views of the Olympic Stadium. This location was chosen for its symbolic connection to the Games and its reputation as a destination for high-profile events. Independent sources confirm that Forman’s Fish Island was a popular choice for Olympic-related gatherings, offering both a distinctive setting and a direct link to the heart of the Olympic Park.
Awards and Recognition
The Podium Awards recognized a wide array of projects and initiatives undertaken by UK higher and further education institutions. Categories included awards for outstanding sporting projects, creative cultural projects, inspirational skills projects, innovative international collaboration, exceptional research contributions, successful student-led activities, and invaluable volunteering projects. These awards were intended to highlight the diverse ways in which universities and colleges contributed to the success of the London 2012 Olympics, both directly and indirectly.
One notable example is the North East PEACE III Sport for Peace Building initiative by Ulster University, which was recognized for its efforts to challenge sectarian and racist attitudes through sport. This project exemplifies the kind of innovative, socially impactful work celebrated by the Podium Awards.
Event Structure and Experience
The Podium Awards evening was designed as a glamorous, black-tie affair, providing attendees with an opportunity to network, celebrate, and reflect on their contributions to the Games. The schedule included a drinks reception and networking session, dinner, the award ceremony itself, and a closing segment. The event featured keynote speakers and was attended by more than 350 guests, including representatives from over 27 institutions.
The awards were presented in a variety of categories, with each winner receiving recognition for their exceptional work. The ceremony also included a special public vote for the Coubertin’s Olympic Vision Award, which acknowledged the project that best embodied the ideals of Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic movement.
Sponsorship and Support
The Podium Awards offered a range of sponsorship opportunities for companies interested in supporting the event. Sponsorship packages included pre-event exposure, branding at the ceremony, opportunities for speaking slots, and the chance to present awards to winners. Sponsors also received recognition in marketing materials, on the event website, and in the awards program. The event’s success was made possible in part by the support of these sponsors, who helped to ensure that the awards had a lasting legacy.
Popularity and Audience
The Podium Awards attracted a diverse audience, including representatives from universities, colleges, sports organizations, and the wider community. The event was widely covered in the press and by university communications, reflecting its significance within the higher education sector. The awards were seen as an important opportunity to showcase the innovative and collaborative spirit of UK institutions in the context of a major international event.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Podium Awards were more than just a celebration of individual achievements; they were a testament to the power of collective effort and the impact of education on society. By recognizing projects that used the inspiration of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to make a real difference, the awards highlighted the role of universities and colleges in driving positive change. The event also served as a platform for sharing best practices and fostering collaboration across institutions.
The legacy of the Podium Awards lives on through the projects that were recognized and the stories that were shared. The digital preservation of the event website ensures that these achievements remain accessible to future generations, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of education and sport.
Press and Media Coverage
The Podium Awards received significant attention from the press and media, both during and after the event. Coverage included articles in university newsletters, sports magazines, and local newspapers, as well as mentions in broader Olympic-related media. This coverage helped to raise the profile of the awards and the institutions involved, further amplifying the impact of their work.
Known For
PodiumAwards2012.com is best known for its role in promoting and preserving the memory of the Podium Awards, a unique event that celebrated the contributions of UK colleges and universities to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The site serves as a historical record of the event, providing information on the awards, the winners, and the broader context in which they were celebrated.
Insights and Specifics
The Podium Awards were notable for their inclusivity and diversity, recognizing a wide range of projects that spanned sport, culture, education, and community engagement. The event brought together representatives from across the UK, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. The awards also provided a platform for students, staff, and partners to showcase their work and to be inspired by the achievements of their peers.
The digital preservation of the event website ensures that the stories and achievements of the participants remain accessible, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of education, sport, and social impact.
Examples
Among the many projects recognized by the Podium Awards, several stand out for their innovation and impact. For example, the North East PEACE III Sport for Peace Building initiative by Ulster University was recognized for its efforts to promote peace and understanding through sport. Other projects focused on increasing participation in physical activity, fostering international collaboration, and supporting student-led initiatives.
Goals
The primary goal of the Podium Awards was to celebrate and recognize the contributions of UK colleges and universities to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The event sought to highlight the innovative and collaborative work of these institutions, as well as to inspire future generations to use the power of sport and education to make a positive difference in their communities.
Reviews and Legacy
The Podium Awards were widely praised for their inclusivity, diversity, and focus on social impact. Participants and attendees highlighted the sense of community and shared purpose that the event fostered, as well as the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of their peers. The digital preservation of the event website ensures that the legacy of the awards continues to inspire and inform.
Details and Specifics
The Podium Awards evening was a black-tie event, held at Forman’s Fish Island in East London. The ceremony included a drinks reception, dinner, and the presentation of awards in a variety of categories. The event was attended by more than 350 guests, including representatives from over 27 institutions. The awards were presented by a panel of judges, and the Coubertin’s Olympic Vision Award was voted on by the public.
Sponsorship opportunities were available for companies interested in supporting the event, with a range of packages designed to provide maximum exposure and engagement. The event was widely covered in the press and by university communications, reflecting its significance within the higher education sector.
Audience
The audience for the Podium Awards included representatives from universities, colleges, sports organizations, and the wider community. The event was designed to be inclusive and accessible, bringing together individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Podium Awards were a celebration of the power of education and sport to drive positive change. By recognizing projects that used the inspiration of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to make a real difference, the awards highlighted the role of universities and colleges in shaping society. The event also served as a platform for sharing best practices and fostering collaboration across institutions.
PodiumAwards2012.com is a digital archive of the Podium Awards, a unique event that celebrated the contributions of UK colleges and universities to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The site preserves the memory and impact of the event, providing a valuable resource for researchers, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of education, sport, and social impact. The awards were notable for their inclusivity, diversity, and focus on positive change, and their legacy continues to inspire future generations.