NEWS IN DETAIL...
Famed Explorer Presents Awards
YEAR 11 school students studying a vocational qualification at Cornwall College St Austell were honoured for their achievements last week, at a special prize-giving ceremony at the College's Keay Theatre.
Special guest speaker Ann Daniels gave an inspirational and informative presentation and then presented the awards to students with Deputy Head of College Tessa Claridge.
Ann, a record breaking Arctic explorer who lives in Devon, described her amazing record-breaking journeys and gave students insider information about how she stayed motivated and what kept her strong through the tough times she endured.
Ann likened her excursions with what the students are about to face and provided some wise words for their future: “Grab hold of your dreams and never believe you are not good enough to achieve them. You have now learnt a new set of skills that will enable you to start your own journey, take hold of all the opportunities that present themselves and you will go far.”
All students were presented with certificates and then trophies were also given to the students that stood out within each group and who had demonstrated exceptional hard work and success.
The group of learners, who are from Brannel School, Fowey Community College, Penrice Community College and Poltair School, study a vocational course at the College for one day a week over two years, alongside their GCSEs. This year over 150 year 11 pupils have completed Certificates and Diplomas at Levels 1 and 2 in six different vocational areas including: Construction, Engineering, Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Health & Social Care, Hospitality and Catering.
During the evening 18 ‘Student of the Year’ awards were given out to: Max Elton, Charlie Moon, Thomas Anstis, Reece Evans, Natasha Fowler, Jessica Kelly, Ryan Morcom from Penrice Community College, Gavin Rowe, Shannon Wheat, Erin Licursi and Mark Wherry from Poltair School, Ruby Mitchell, Paul Moss, Isabella Avis and Leah Grant from Fowey Community College.
The overall Student of the Year Award was presented to James Double from Penrice Community College, who studied Engineering, his tutor Andy Phillips explained why he was chosen: “James is an extremely able student who has shown a consistent approach to all aspects of his work; his effort, enthusiasm and focus are exemplary and this is reflected in his standard of work. He can often be seen to be helping others and in group work taking a leading role and ensuring his team achieves the set targets. He has all the attributes to pursue a career in engineering and achieve whatever goals he sets himself.”
Paula Hutchens, Schools Partnership Manager at Cornwall College, added: “The celebrating success event is a wonderful evening where students, parents, teachers and representatives from schools get together to celebrate the achievements of the learners for their time at Cornwall College St Austell. They have all worked incredibly hard over the past two years and I wish them every success for their future.”
Dave Linnell, Principal of Cornwall College, explained: “We feel it is important to honour our students for the hard work and dedication that they have put into their studies over the two years. We understand that studying at college at 14 can be challenging; however they have all done so well and are an absolute credit to the College and their schools. Seeing them celebrate their success is what makes our work so rewarding.”
