The college’s AS and BTEC Certificate students were honoured for their outstanding achievements and progress in their celebratory event at the city centre theatre last week.

Family, friends, college staff and governors joined the 30 award winners, nominated from seven faculties by their tutors and faculties, for the categories of academic excellence, contribution to their faculty, outstanding progress, tutee of the year or the overall faculty awards. All of the winners are now continuing in their second year within the faculties of Maths and Science, Art and Design, Humanities, Business and IT, Sport Leisure and Tourism, English Languages and IB or Media and Performing Arts.

Guest of honour was Dr Deirdre Hughes OBE, policy adviser, academic research and writer and consultant specializing in the impact of careers, employment and skills policies to support the development of jobs and growth. She delivered an inspirational talk which include her key points for learning and concluded with advice to the students of “Be youthful, you are the entrepreneurial next generation with an exciting future. Take advantage of all the opportunities you are given since you are part of the new renaissance in a fast changing world.”

As well as the awards presented to the students by Richard Atkins, Principal at the college, the visitors were also entertained as students from the faculties showcased a range of skills from solo musical and poetry performances, artistic presentations, explosive science experiments and challenging quizzes and business pitches.

“These awards are important to us as we mark our AS and BTEC students’ journey with us and their very important achievements at the end of their first year at college” said Emma Fielding, Assistant Principal. “It celebrates their transition from GCSE study at school to the challenges of the A level and BTEC Certificate programmes. We are celebrating true academic prowess and determination of some of our brightest of students in a year that saw the students record the highest academic achievements for AS levels. The evening also recognizes the contribution that so many students make to the success of the college through their involvement in their tutor groups, our learner voice programme and their support for others. “

Citations on the evening included accolades of ‘determined to succeed’ ‘ all-round outstanding student’ ‘commitment and contribution second to none’ ‘stands out in her group’ and ‘natural abilities of leading classes with energy and confidence’

“The evening was a genuine celebration of our amazing students, from the welcome reception with canapés made and served by the NVQ 3 and VRQ 2 and 3 students to the award winners and performances. ” said Emma Fielding. We were delighted that Dr Deirdre Hughes was our guest speaker – such an inspiration. “