The students, from Rainham’s Construction and Engineering Campus, have been praised for their actions after rushing to help a man who was suffering from burns after a targeted attack outside the college gates in November.
Electrical installation students Dima Antonuzenko and Leo Aguda, both from Romford, Haris Skopic, from South Ockendon, and construction skills student Aston Jones, from Rainham, were returning to college along New Road when they saw two men arguing.
When they witnessed the attack, the students immediately called 999 and followed emergency advice to assist the injured man until help arrived.
Dima Antonuzenko said: “Me and my friends were walking back to college when we saw two men having an argument, then we realised that one of them needed first aid urgently.
“It looked like some kind of liquid had been thrown at him.
“I called 999 and they told me how to provide vital first aid so as to prevent any further injury or burns.”
The London Fire Brigade, who attended the scene, commended the students for their quick thinking and selflessness.
Sub officer Tom Binder from Barking Fire Station said: “During the early stages of the incident, these students acted with remarkable composure and courage by immediately applying water to the casualty’s face.
“Their swift actions were absolutely vital in preventing further injury and significantly contributed to reducing the severity of the burns.
“Their behaviour exemplifies responsibility, awareness, and genuine care for others, qualities that reflect extremely well on them and on New City College.”
Mr Binder also acknowledged the efforts of college staff, saying: “Please accept our appreciation for the professionalism, calmness, and teamwork shown today.
“It helped ensure the emergency services could work quickly and effectively and truly made a difference.”
Emergency services arrived soon after the students’ 999 call.
Fire officers and paramedics treated the man at the scene before taking him to hospital.
He was later discharged.
Mr Antonuzenko thanked those who supported them during the incident.
He said: “I want to thank all the college staff and the emergency services who helped us and kept everything under control.”
In recognition of their bravery, the students were presented with awards and vouchers by Rainham campus principal Colleen Marshall.
Ms Marshall said: “We are very proud of these students who showed exceptional community spirit, compassion and courage.
“Their response in a high-pressure situation was outstanding.
“This award is just a small token of thanks to recognise their actions. “They were an absolute credit to New City College that day.
“We are delighted that the London Fire Brigade recognised their actions and that Sub Officer Tom Binder took time out to send such a heartfelt letter of commendation.”
