WARRINGTON & Vale Royal College’s Higher Education students celebrated outstanding success at an annual awards ceremony, set in the magnificent St Elphin’s Church..
Friends, family, staff and fellow students gathered at the church to honour the determination and commitment of students who have completed HNCs, HNDs and Teacher Training, as well as higher level Apprenticeships and Professional qualifications.
As well as academic certificates, several students also received special awards for outstanding achievement, dedication and commitment in their subject area.
Natasha Wyatt, graduating in HND Performing Arts, was awarded the Future Leader Award, sponsored by Warrington’s Own Buses.
The Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by Warrington and Halton NHS Trust, went to Richard Cusack, who successfully completed his Sport & Exercise Science HNC.
The Hilary Tucker Inspiring Learner Award, sponsored by warrington-worldwide, was presented to HND Fine Art graduate Erin Hague.
Jeremy Boardman, graduating in HND Computing & Systems Development, took home the Student of the Year Award, sponsored by Lane End.
The Higher Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by Morgan Branding, was presented to Melanie Hallett, who is currently employed as a PA in Warrington & Vale Royal College.
The event also witnessed celebrity chef Aiden Byrne, become a Fellow of the College.
Principal Nichola Newton reflected on Aiden’s support of the college’s work placement programme and his commitment to developing the employability skills of their students.
“Over the last few years Aiden has really supported the college with various initiatives,” explained Nichola, “including the Hospitality & Catering Skills Contest, which takes place each year. This is when our students compete against one another – Aiden spent the whole day with us, judging students and offering them valuable advice. He also kindly donated a number of his books.
“What’s more, Aiden has provided our catering students with countless work placement opportunities, including within the prestigious Manchester House and 20 Stories. He’s also appointed our talented students in paid employment roles within his restaurants.”
The evening was concluded with a Student Vote of Thanks, delivered by the aforementioned Melanie Hallett.
Melanie said: “On behalf of all the students at Warrington & Vale Royal College I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate each and every one of you sat in front of me this evening.
“I would like to thank all of our tutors for their hard work, determination and endless patience in guiding and supporting us on our course.
“I would like to thank the family and friends of each of our graduands, for their unconditional help and support along the way and especially the students of Warrington & Vale Royal College – I would like to wish you lots of luck and best wishes for the future.
“And remember the wise words of Santosh Kalwar: ‘It does not matter where you go and what you study, what matters most is what you share with yourself and the world.’”
To find out more about Warrington & Vale Royal College’s Higher Education and Professional courses, visit www.wvr.ac.uk.
