Inspirational student receives award from Dragon

WARRINGTON teenager Jessica Dixon is celebrating after receiving a prestigious award at the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy Graduation Ceremony hosted at Freemasons’ Hall in London.
Jessica, aged 19 from Callands, was awarded the Inspirational Student 2014 Award by the Dragon’s den star Peter Jones, sponsored by Canon, for her dedication to the course and her inspirational story.
Despite a serious illness, Guillian Barrè Syndrome, one of the worst nerve damage cases the doctor had seen, causing her to miss three months at the start of the course, Jessica achieved a triple distinction star, the top grade, through her determination, dedication and positive mental attitude. Jessica’s fellow students and lecturers at Warrington Collegiate, nominated her for the award, recognising her hard work and her cheerfulness, despite numerous setbacks.
On returning to the course, Jess took part in numerous fundraising activities including an 80 foot drop abseil from the college roof, which she completed amid thunderous applause, which raised over £300 for charity. This was a massive achievement, something Jess couldn’t have imagined doing it five month earlier when she was very ill, wheelchair bound and in hospital.
Steve Lawrence, Jessica’s Learning Mentor at Warrington Collegiate, said, “Jessica’s energy and enthusiasm, drive and motivation to succeed make her a shining example and role model to others.”
Jessica said: “I feel extremely privileged to receive the award of Inspirational Student of the Year 2014. It is a huge honour of which I am very proud. My Journey at the PJEA, despite being a struggle, has taught me never to give up.
“I owe a very big thank you to my mum and sister for helping me to stay strong and a big thank you the staff at Warrington Collegiate; especially Steve Lawrence my Learning Mentor for supporting my decision to carry on my studies and for believing in me every step of the way. I now look forward to a bright future as I start my Business HND at the college in September.
Jessica’s Mum, Lesley and older sister Amy , are full of praise for Jessica, saying, “After everything Jessica has been though over the last 10 months, from being 85% paralysed, to learning to walk, talk and hold a pen, we are extremely proud of her efforts. Against all odds she achieved the distinction star she worked so hard for.”
Entrepreneur and star of Dragons’ Den Peter Jones CBE presented Jessica with her award in front of hundreds of guests during the annual graduation ceremony.
Alice Barnard, CEO of the Peter Jones Foundation said: “The Peter Jones Enterprise Academy graduation is always such a highlight for me and it is fantastic to celebrate the future generation of entrepreneurs as they embark on the next chapter of their lives – these are the ones to watch, the young people who will be changing the world!”
Jess‘s success is not stopping with just one award. She has been nominated by Warrington Collegiate for the National Association of Colleges (AOC) Student of the Year Award 2014.
Students can find out more about wide variety of Vocational Courses, Apprenticeships, Higher Education and Professional Qualifications on offer at Warrington Collegiate by visiting the Open Evening and skills show on Monday 20th October, 5-8pm.
Students can find out more about the extensive range of Vocational Courses and Apprenticeships by visiting the website www.warrington.ac.uk
Students can also request information and a prospectus by calling Learner Services 01925 494494 or emailing [email protected]