Suffolk New College doffed their caps to top performing students during an awards ceremony held in Ipswich.
The annual event saw a total of 31 learners receive accolades for their efforts during the last 12 months at an event held at the main college campus based on Rope Walk.
In addition to the awards, all departments championed their successes during a showcase event that saw demonstrations, displays, music videos and dance routines take place.
One of the top award winners was Sarah Morgan, 38, from Framlingham. Sarah was crowned childcare learner of the year. She has been studying her teaching assistant course, juggling trips to London to support her husband who is having medical treatment, whilst looking after two children and working full time. She said: “It’s been great (coming back into education) and I’ve had lots of encouragement from my tutors at college and the school where I work. It’s been difficult at times but I’m someone who likes to be busy. Winning the award has totally lifted my spirits.”
Sarah will now be heading off to university in September to do a degree in early years learning.
Principal and chief executive officer of Suffolk New College Alan Pease was master of ceremonies. During his speech, Mr Pease reflected on the recent visit of the prime minister to the college and outlined some of the exciting developments in recent months that include the creation of an upgraded animal centre as well as news of a new campus building in Leiston.
He said: “We recently had the distinct honour of hosting the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer. His words of praise for our college community—and especially our learners—was truly uplifting.
“During these awards, we carry that same spirit of pride and celebration as we reflect on the incredible and inspirational accomplishments that our students have made in what has been a truly outstanding year.”
Other successes included Osman Adam, 19, from Ipswich who raised over £1200 for the YMCA whilst running the London marathon in a time of three hours and four minutes. He received his ESOL student of the year trophy from the MP for Ipswich, Jack Abbott.
Ellisha Corder, 19, from Ipswich received the beauty student of the year.
She said: “I have an underlying heart condition. I’ve had it since I was a baby. It is very restrictive – but I fight every day. I didn’t expect it (the award). My hard work has been recognised and it’s so lovely to have that support around me (via the tutors) – I’m going to miss them.”
Davide Oggero, 19, from Cambridge has recently started working for Restaurant 22, a Michelin Star eatery. He said: “The lecturers have been amazing. I was really happy to win this.” (Next up for Davide is he will be taking part with a team of two others from Suffolk new College in a national ‘Restaurant Team of the Year’ competition in Sheffield).
And Lola Carey, 18 from Hadleigh received top sports student of the year. Lola volunteered and worked at a Hadleigh Community Primary School for 18 months in addition to her course. Her dream is to one day work for Ipswich Town Football Club.
All winners received prizes or cash worth up to £150.00, a goodie bag and a certificate.
Every single prize was sponsored by a local or national company.
One sponsor was Anne and David Baalham. Their son and brother (Mark) – was a former student of the College who sadly passed away. They have sponsored an award in Mark’s memory for 40 years.
Another sponsor was Alec Bird – a director of Tru7 Group – a construction services business based in Kesgrave. Alec said: “We believe the partnership between education and industry is very important. We need to build career paths and offer opportunities to young people and it’s great to support the college.
“Suffolk New College is a fantastic institution filled with very passionate people,” he added.
Food was provided by learners who are currently on courses studied via the Suffolk Centre for Culinary Arts. Students Lily Kemp, Indigo Kirby and Daryas Mustfai treated the 300 guests to a series of live music performances.