Land-based learners were put in the spotlight at the annual Suffolk New College awards and showcase evening.
During this occasion, top-performing students were rewarded for their efforts throughout the year.
The former BBC Suffolk breakfast host and broadcasting legend Mark Murphy took on presenting duties.
Mr Murphy – the CEO of Cancer Support Suffolk and host of the TV show Life’s a Pitch – is a former student of the college who said ‘it was an honour to oversee this heartwarming celebration’.
The annual awards saw 34 learners pick up prizes for their efforts during the last 12 months at their Ipswich and Suffolk Rural-based campuses.
Before the awards took place, all departments at the college championed their successes throughout the year, via displays and exhibitions.
Principal and CEO of the college, Alan Pease, started proceedings and reflected on the last 12 months. He said: “This event is an opportunity to come together as a college community to celebrate the achievements, talents, and successes of our learners. The year has given me a real sense of pride as we reflect on the outstanding accomplishments of our students. Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to their studies have been truly remarkable. Congratulations to our land-based students – and indeed all of our winners.”
Ashlynn Dunnett is 23 and lives in Ipswich. She has really started to blossom since studying on a floristry course – winning student of the year. She said: “I had never done floristry at all before this course, so to win this award after starting from nothing is really surprising. My future plans are to hopefully start working in a floristry business. My time at college has been very interesting and fun. I love learning new things. I won’t forget what I’ve learnt – and I certainly won’t forget who taught me my newfound skills (Alison).
Grace Calvert-Whitehead, who won the top equine learner award, received the accolade at the 2026 Suffolk New College awards and showcase evening. On winning the prize, the 20-year-old said: “I really enjoyed my two years at Suffolk Rural. I made some good friends and had access to great teachers. I’ve really enjoyed increasing my knowledge of all things equine, from stud management to nutrition.
“Also, my work experience has resulted in a couple of days of employment a week.”
Jacob Phair, 18, from Ipswich, won the horticulture award. He said: “I was shocked to win. They chose me because of my progression – and I want to try and do another course or apprenticeship next. I love working outside. The college has been brilliant.”
Euan Melton won the Farming Student of the Year prize. The Fork East employee said: “I found the college course very enjoyable because it gave me the opportunity to learn a wide range of skills and gain hands-on experience. The course has helped build my confidence, knowledge, and understanding of the industry.
Nicky Melton is the Company Director for Fork East. She said: “We are incredibly proud of Euan for receiving this award. This achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and commitment to developing his skills both in the workplace and through his studies. He is now a valued member of the Fork East team.”
Jess Tee received the top arboriculture prize. Her tutor Abbie Morris said: “Jess has shown remarkable personal growth, building both her skills and confidence to become a truly dedicated and inspiring student. We are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved.”
Jess, 20 from Bury St Edmunds and she works for JPM Tree Services. She said: “I’m proud of it. I think this will help me stand out a little bit. I did my A levels and didn’t know what to do. I looked into arboriculture, and it was the only job I could see myself doing. It’s challenging, and I like working outside.”
All winners received prizes related to their course, a goodie bag, and a certificate.
Every single award 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.
Food was provided by learners who are currently on courses studied via the Suffolk Centre for Culinary Arts.
Holly Bide and Davia Fontellio-Smith sang songs during the ceremony, and performing arts learners sang numbers from their recent hit show called Heathers the Musical.