2nd December 2025
A Newquay University Centre student has won a Lantra/Landex award, overcoming strong competition from learners across the country.
Kelsey O’Shaughnessy has been named the winner of the Environment, Conservation, Game and Wildlife Management (Higher Education Learner) category at the Lantra-Landex Land-Based and Environment Learner of the Year Awards (LBEL Awards) held at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham.
“This is an outstanding personal achievement for Kelsey and a moment of real pride for everyone at Newquay,” said Ruth Martin, Head of Campus at Newquay University Centre.
“Her commitment to environmental study and professional practice stands out, and it’s excellent to see her recognised nationally.”
Reflecting on the award, Kelsey said: “I’m incredibly honoured (and shocked!) to have been named the HE Learner of the Year in Environment, Conservation, Game and Wildlife Management at the national LBEL Awards.”
“This recognition is both overwhelming and deeply motivating as I begin my journey in marine science. I’m grateful to Newquay University Centre and everyone who has supported me over the past three years.
“This award marks an exciting beginning to what I hope will be a long and impactful career in the field.”
Kelsey, who studies the BSc (Hons) Applied Marine Zoology programme, will also benefit from specialist training of her choice, generously offered on the night by Dr Mark Nason, Head of Professional Practice at the Chartered Institute of Ecological and Environmental Management.
Kelsey’s success continues a pattern of recognition for Newquay University Centre. It is the second consecutive year a student from the campus has received this award, following Felicity Jones’s win in 2024.
Ruth added: “For a small university centre to achieve consecutive wins in a category often dominated by larger land-based institutions speaks to the calibre of our students and the guidance they receive. It reinforces our reputation for producing capable, confident graduates.”
Alongside Kelsey’s achievement, fellow Newquay student Paul Reisberg also reached the national shortlist, highlighting the strength of teaching and learning across the campus.
The LBEL Awards, now in their third year, recognise student achievement across the land-based and environmental sectors.
Find out more about studying at Newquay University Centre at www.cornwall.ac.uk/newquay
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