Community work, volunteering and overcoming adversity were just some of the many achievements celebrated at City College’s recent Student of the Year awards.
The annual ceremony recognises students who have really gone above and beyond – making a positive contribution to the College or local community, or overcoming personal challenges to achieve highly in their studies.
The award winners were joined by family, friends and their nominating lecturers as well as local employers who presented five special awards. They all enjoyed a delicious three-course meal prepared by the College’s hospitality and catering students before receiving their certificate and prizes.
Nicola Cove, Deputy Principal of City College, said:
“The Student of the Year awards ceremony is an important event for the College and a great way to round off our academic year. It provides us with an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge some of the remarkable achievements of our students and recognise publicly their hard work and commitment.
“These students, some of whom have had to overcome additional barriers, have all achieved fantastic results and deserve to be congratulated. The staff at the College are enormously proud of their accomplishments and the way in which they reflect so well on the City. It really is an honour to celebrate the outstanding qualities and achievements of our students and to share in their successes with family, friends and tutors.”
Award Winners
College Awards
Steve Lacy, 35, Beacon Park
Higher Education Student of the Year
After over a decade of being in the workforce, Steve decided to return to education to start a career in Sports Rehabilitation, Strength and Conditioning. With a young family to support and aspirations to help future athletes, Steve works incredibly hard and was nominated by not one, but three of his lecturers, who said ‘he is what all HE students should aspire to be’.
“I want to get the most out of my time here so I volunteer for every event and mentor students where I can. The lecturers are there whenever you need them and offer so much guidance. I have been given many opportunities to test my skills and learn everything I can about the sports industry, which I am sure will help me in my future career.”
Alexandra Kennedy, 21, Stoke
Adult Learner of the Year
After moving to the UK three years ago, Alexandra decided to further her career by going back to education. With a keen business head on her shoulders, she manages to balance studying whilst working full-time and is on track to receive top grades.
“I believe learning is a privilege and that a good education can have a huge impact on the path we all take. The College has provided me with all the knowledge and skills to start my career in business. I am looking forward to starting university in September and couldn’t have got to where I am without the support of my lecturers.”
Megan Worthy, 17, Southway
Full-time Student of the Year
Fighting through her deep anxiety, Megan has strived to do things outside of her comfort zone this year. Megan likes to make the most of her learning by volunteering at events and uses her talent for beauty to help others who may need a little pampering.
“I really pushed myself to start my course and I am so glad I did! I’m enjoying everything I am learning and getting to use these skills to help others feel better is an added bonus. I’m less and less anxious every day and can’t thank my lecturers, friends and course mates enough for their support.”
Sponsored Awards
Luke Collier, 21, Devonport
Employability Award sponsored by Redrok
Luke stood out from the great pool of candidates due to his positivity, hardworking attitude and determination to succeed despite personal challenges. He has so many skills that employers want and that is why he was awarded the Employability Award by sponsors Redrok.
“Choosing to be an apprentice at City College has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I know I would not have the confidence or the skill set I have today without my Apprenticeship programme and the support of colleagues. This experience has helped me to discover my career path.”
Lyndsey-Jo Roberts, 31, Saltash
High Achiever Award sponsored by Devon Chamber of Commerce
Lyndsey-Jo is a fantastic example of someone giving 100%. She is a real ambassador for women in engineering: as both a military wife and a mum, she has juggled these commitments with her studies from day one and continues to impress everyone she meets. Her grades are always outstanding – in the high 90s – and the reason she was awarded the High Achiever Award sponsored by Devon Chamber of Commerce.
“Going back to education has been a fantastic decision. I am really enjoying learning again. It can be tough at times to juggle College and family commitments but the opportunities that will be open to me once I complete my qualification make it all worthwhile.”
Terry Connick, 18, Mount Wise
Leadership Award sponsored by Portcullis Legals and Principal’s Award winner
Described by his lecturer as ‘the most outstanding student I have had the pleasure of teaching’. Terry was unsurprisingly selected for the Principal’s Award, as well as receiving the Leadership Award, sponsored by Portcullis Legals. He receives very high praise from his teachers, peers and employers. He is also a mentor to fellow students and makes the most of every opportunity; taking part in events and recently returning from Gothenburg as part of a working exchange programme.
“The College has opened so many doors for me. I really enjoying working as part of a team especially at events like Flavour Fest, MTV Crashes and the Duke of Cornwall ‘takeover’. I was really humbled to win two awards – I’m just doing something I love but it is great to be recognised.”
Student Voice Award sponsored by Clever Student Lets
Jack Henderson, 21, Saltash
Studying Creative Media Production, Jack is an ambassador and student rep for his course making him someone that both students and staff can rely on. Jack has shown a creative flair as a contributor to a student magazine, which he is using as a platform to make more student voices heard.
“I believe you get out of life what you put in, so I try to help others where I can. I think it is important for everyone to be heard and I am proud to be a representative of the student voice. I hope to build many positive relationships throughout my studies which will stand me in good stead for the world of work.”
