College celebrates high achievers

A PRESTIGIOUS ceremony at St Elphins Church celebrated the achievements of Higher Education students from Warrington Collegiate.
More than 600 guests attended to acknowledge the determination and commitment of students who have completed HNCs, HNDs and Teacher Training, as well as higher level Apprenticeships and professional qualifications.
Principal, Paul Hafren, said: “Our students work hard to produce fantastic results and the ceremony is a great way to recognise their achievements. Students at Warrington Collegiate graduate not only with a qualification, but also with a collection of unforgettable memories and lasting friendships. We wish them every success as they move on to continue their studies or progress onto employment.”
As well as the academic certificates several students also received special awards for outstanding achievement, dedication and commitment in their subject area.
The Outstanding Group of the Year Award was awarded to students studying HND in Sports and Exercise Sciences. Amongst the group are several Super League players, including Simon Grix of Warrington Wolves.
Gillian Teare, graduating in Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 5, was awarded the Professional Student of the Year.
The Higher Apprenticeship Award went to Nathan Higgins, studying the HNC in Computing Systems Development. Nathan is planning on continuing studying to degree level. He said: “I’m thrilled to be chosen, it really is a great honour to be named Higher Apprentice of the Year. All the hard work is worth it; a big thank you to my tutors at Warrington Collegiate for the help and support.”
The Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by LiveWire went to Aleksejs Karpenko, graduating with an HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Keith Maddox Neighbourhood Wellbeing Director for Livewire added his congratulations to Aleksejs Tutor, Nita Rahate, who collected the award on his behalf.
The Harry Cunningham Award was presented to Craig Hunter. Harry Cunningham was a Fellow of Warrington Collegiate and had a life long association with the college.
Craig, graduating with a Diploma in Accounting at Level 4, said: “This is so unexpected. I couldn’t have done this without the support of my college tutor, family and friends; thank you to everyone involved.”
Student of the Year, sponsored by Wickes, was HND Sports and Exercise Sciences graduate, Christian-Paul White.
Mollie Beechall (pictured), who has been studying the HNC in Health and Social Care, was presented with the Inspirational Student of the Year Award for demonstrating exceptional commitment and dedication throughout her studies.
Molly said “The Award was a lovely surprise. It’s been a challenging year for me, so I’m looking forward to taking a break from my studies to spend some time with my daughter.”
The final award of the night, the Cheshire Consortium of Colleges Award, went to Michael Naylor, for outstanding achievement in his studies, the HNC in Construction and the Built Environment.