The Isle of Wight College recently hosted its highly anticipated annual awards ceremony recognising and celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of students and apprentices from across the college’s diverse academic programmes.
The event, held on 7th July, provided an opportunity for those graduating to don their gowns and celebrate the completion of their various higher level, degree courses.
The ceremony was compered by Paul Buckland, Head of Department, with certificates presented to the learners by Ros Parker OBE, Principal, and Dr Nick England DL, Chair of Governors.
This year, in addition to certificate presentations, representatives from several local businesses attended to present prizes, including WightFibre who sponsored the overall Student of the Year Award.
Together, they joined the college community in commending the dedication and hard work demonstrated by the students and apprentices throughout their individual educational journeys.
The day began with captivating performances by Ruby Bodenham from Platform One Creative Education and the college’s talented performing arts students, who showcased their exceptional skills and entertained the audience with a performance from LaLa Land. Their entertaining performances set a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere, further enhancing the excitement of the event.
The heart of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the deserving students. Under the guidance of Principal Ros Parker OBE, each student received recognition for their remarkable achievements in their respective fields of study. The certificates served as a testament to their dedication, resilience, and passion for academic excellence. Award winners for 2023 are as follows:
- Thomas Fedden – Outstanding Contribution in the Workplace award, sponsored by Southern Co-ops
- Holly Curtis – Hairdressing award (1st place)
- Bethany Lavell – Hairdressing award (2nd place)
- Maddy Powell Smith – 3rd Hairdressing award (3rd place)
- Chelsea-Anne Buck (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Ieuan Davies (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Maxwell Bradshaw (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Dermot Lane (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Tjae Merrett (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Harry Palmer (Young Enterprise team) Business Student of the Year award
- Kris Wieczorek – Progress award
- Owen Marshall – Horticulture Best Practice award
- Lewis Fox – Electrical award (Level 1)
- James Brookes – Electrical award (Level 2)
- Harry Hagan – Electrical award (Level 3)
- Ella Young – NCFE Student of the Year
- Susie Barnard – Courage, Perseverance and Progress award
- Seth Rayner – John Ackroyd Award for Young Engineer of the Year (Sponsored)
- Zenna Noakes – Engineering Consultative Committee Cup
- Daniel Jacobs – Painting and Decorating Award
- Hannah Peacock – Jeremy Davies Award for Support to other Learners
- Hannah Benford – Apprentice of the Year
- Doreen Abhulimhen-Iyoha – LRC User of the Year Award
- Aroha Oakley – UKSA Student of the year
- Callie Jackson – Platform One Student of the Year
- Tegan Phillipson – Overall Student of the Year
The Isle of Wight College’s Annual Student Awards also highlighted a series of touching stories that resonated with attendees. These stories illustrated the remarkable triumphs and personal growth demonstrated by students who overcame significant challenges and adversities during their educational pursuits. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, determination, and the transformative power of education.
Principal Ros Parker OBE expressed her admiration for the students, stating:
“The Annual Student Awards are a momentous occasion for our college community. It is a joyous celebration of the remarkable accomplishments of our students and their unwavering commitment to their studies. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and grateful to the sponsors who have generously supported this event.”
Nick England, Chair of Governors, also expressed his delight and stated:
“These awards not only recognise academic excellence but also celebrate the personal growth and resilience of our students. Their stories serve as an inspiration to all, and we are thrilled to have witnessed their remarkable journeys.”
The Isle of Wight College extends its deepest gratitude to all the sponsors who made the Annual Student Awards possible. Their support played a vital role in recognising and celebrating the exceptional achievements of the college’s students and apprentices.
