Outstanding students at Burton and South Derbyshire College celebrated with an awards evening

Burton and South Derbyshire College held its Further Education and Apprenticeship Awards on Wednesday 26^th June at Pirelli Stadium.

Outstanding students, their families and guests celebrated the exceptional skills and qualifications achieved in the past academic year. Hard work and dedication to studies were recognised, along with talent, success and achievement across many vocational areas. 

The award categories were based around the College’s Skills Promise: a variety of skills and qualities that students gain in addition to their qualification that will give them a head start in their career and make them stand out when applying for jobs. The Skills Promise encompasses the range of skills that employers are looking for, from creative thinking, being a team player and showing resilience, to being a good communicator, being good at solving problems and showing initiative. 

The ceremony was presented by compère, Mark O’Sullivan from Touch FM, and a range of local businesses sponsored the awards evening, including IG Masonry Support Systems, Hoar Cross Hall, Hardy Signs, G Taylor & Sons, The Hilton, St. George’s Park, Hi-Q Tyres and Autocare, Manoir Industries, Crescent Motoring Services, Specialised Orthotic Services, Crestchic, Burton Albion and Autoclenz.

To celebrate the College’s 70^th anniversary, the special guests for the evening were two former students who have gone on to achieve success in their chosen industries: successful videographer, Will Cheaney and award winning film maker and animator, Tilley Bancroft.

The overall FE Learner of the Year Award for 2019 went to Early Years student, Savannah Williams who has overcome challenges and barriers to achieve her learning goals. Meanwhile, Automotive Apprentice, Zak Archer, won Apprentice of the Year 2019 for the work he does with his employer, T.E.C.K Ltd to support disadvantaged young people to achieve automotive skills.

Vice Principal of Burton and South Derbyshire College, John Beaty said:

“It was fantastic to host a celebration of achievement and success for our students. At Burton and South Derbyshire College, we are passionate about encouraging people to reach their full potential. The event was an excellent way to celebrate outstanding achievements and recognise those learners who go above and beyond to reach their educational and career goals.”