Clare Hall Night Porter Barry Waterson has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to student wellbeing after being nominated for a 2026 SU Cambridge Excellence Award in the category of Support for Students by a Non-Academic Staff Member. The nomination celebrates Barry’s exceptional dedication to supporting students and the wider College community.

Barry joined Clare Hall in April 2026 and has quickly become a valued member of the College community. Alongside his role as Night Porter, he is well known across Cambridge for his commitment to supporting students, both practically and emotionally.

One of the most distinctive ways Barry has contributed to student wellbeing is through his crocheting. During the first COVID-19 lockdown in 2021, while working as a Night Porter at Clare College, he began making beanie hats for students. What started as a small gesture of support grew into a remarkable community initiative.

Since then, Barry has crocheted more than 500 beanie hats, all made free of charge using recycled wool. The hats have been given to students, staff and members of the wider University community. He continues to make hats for Clare Hall students today.

This is not the first time Barry’s dedication has been recognised. In 2021, he was nominated for a Student-Led Teaching Award in the category of Working in Partnership with Students, receiving a recommendation and finishing as runner-up.

Barry believes that porters often go above and beyond their formal responsibilities, providing reassurance, practical assistance and a friendly face whenever needed. His nomination reflects the important role that non-academic staff play in supporting student life and wellbeing across the collegiate University.

Speaking about his experience at Clare Hall, Barry said:

"I am proud to be a Night Porter here. It is a privilege to support the Clare Hall community and to be accepted as part of the Porters' Team under the brilliant leadership of Donna [Head Porter], Neil and Louise [Senior Porters]."

Everyone at Clare Hall congratulates Barry on this well-deserved recognition. His nomination is a fitting tribute to the kindness, generosity and unwavering support he brings to our community, and we are incredibly proud to have him as part of the Clare Hall family.