EXCEPTIONAL students from Evesham College, Malvern Hills College and Pershore College have been celebrating their achievements at a special further education awards ceremony.

A total of 44 students studying at the WCG Worcestershire family of colleges were recognised for their hard work, dedication and attainment throughout the academic year. The event, held at Pershore College, was enjoyed by family, friends and members of staff.

Angela Joyce, group principal and CEO gave out awards for each subject at each college for outstanding achievement, commitment to learning and student of the year, before the overall student of the year for each college was announced.

The Evesham College student of the year was Edward Edkins, a Level 3 light vehicle maintenance and repair student. Edward, aged 19 from Evesham, said: “It feels absolutely fantastic to win this award. My tutor, David Finn has been absolutely phenomenal this year. He saw the potential in me and took me from being at the bottom of the class to walking away with distinctions in all my modules!”

The Malvern Hills College student of the year was Shauna Roberts, a Level 3 hairdressing and beauty therapy student. The 20-year-old from Ledbury had previously completed her Level 2 qualification at college. She has now gained a job as a hairdressing and beauty therapist trainee at The Sanctuary at Holloways, the garden furniture and interiors specialist based in Suckley. Shauna said: “I have had a fabulous time studying at Malvern Hills College and really enjoyed both my courses. I can’t thank my tutors Sam and Tracey enough, as they’ve both done so much for me. I just wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

The overall Pershore College student of the year was Lucy Harrison from Bromsgrove. Lucy, who studied for a Level 3 extended diploma in animal management, said: “I was not expecting this award at all - I’m a bit shocked!”

The 19-year-old, who has a place to study for a BSc in Zoology at university, has aspirations to work as a zoologist. She said: “It’s been a great learning experience here at Pershore. The atmosphere is really friendly and relaxed, and the lecturers are brilliant. I’ve particularly enjoyed the hands-on practical experience in handling animals. I have got a lot more confidence in these practical handling skills and can’t wait to continue this with wild and exotic creatures.”

For more information about courses at all three colleges, go to www.wcg.ac.uk or call 0300 456 0049.