Over 60 students were recognised for their hard work, dedication and success at a glittering awards ceremony last night – watched by BRIT award nominee Beth Rowley.

The students were honoured at Weston College’s annual ‘Celebration of Success’ event, held at the Winter Gardens in Weston-super-Mare.

They were presented with their awards by former Weston College student Beth, who studied at the College from 2001-2002.

Kyle Todd, aged 23 and a former Broadoak pupil, won the ‘Outstanding Achievement at Degree Level’ award. Kyle was part of the first group of students to complete the BSc (Hons) Degree in Computing at Weston College.

He graduated with a Foundation Degree at Weston before progressing to the top-up degree for which he was awarded a First Class Honours.

His tutor said: “With determination and sheer hard work, Kyle managed to maintain full-time employment whilst also studying. As part of his work-based learning he helped develop the college Virtual Learning Environment and centred his work-based research project on its enhancement.”

On his achievement, Kyle said: “I was very happy when I received my final results. It’s been a busy three years of study but all the late nights and hard work is now worthwhile.”

Simon Roots, aged 41, received the ‘Access to Higher Education (HE) Student of the Year’ award. Simon studied the Access to HE course which allows students without any formal qualifications the opportunity to progress to university.

Simon, who met his fiancée on the course, has now progressed to the University of West of England to train to become a Mental Health Nurse.

Simon also gave the Student Vote of Thanks at the award and said: “I would like to thank the College on behalf of the students for the amount of support, encouragement and direction they have given us in helping us to succeed. Studying here has given me a new hope in my life – thank you for turning people’s dreams into reality.”

The girls were also recognised for their efforts. Hannah Williams, aged 19, was awarded for her outstanding success at A Levels where she received 4 A grades, and Jo Kidner, who is now working at North Somerset Council, won the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award.

Approximately 300 guests attended the prestigious event including prize-winners and their families, sponsors and local dignitaries. The event included a drinks reception, dinner and award presentations.

Beth Rowley completed a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design course as well as the Integrated Music and Technology course at the College, before progressing to the Brighton Institute of Modern Music.
 

She said: “I’ve crammed a lot in since I left Weston College but I still remember those days like they were yesterday. My brother was doing the same course as me that year; we had so much fun and met some lifelong friends, and we both agree what an amazing year that was, definitely one of the best of my life! I’m happy to be part of the Celebration of Success!”

Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Paul Phillips said: “We are proud of the achievements of each and every one of our students and also recognise outstanding effort and achievement. These awards were presented to students who have gone the extra mile in their studies, those who have motivated others, overcome the odds and contributed the most.”

Corporate Patron of the event was Pontin’s Holidays. Sales and Marketing Director Jason Brindle said: “We chose to support this worthy event because we have been more than impressed with the College since becoming an official training partner, and to reinforce the strong partnership we have built with them. It was a very enjoyable evening and we were very impressed with the students, staff and the event.”

Other sponsors included Doubletree by Hilton - Cadbury House, Edexcel, M & O Training, Somax, The Mead Group, T.O.C.S. Ltd., Weston-super-Mare Football Club, Weston Hair and Beauty Supplies and Affinage, Arturus Architects, Bevan Brittan, City & Guilds, Stone King, Sewell Solicitors and The Institute of Engineering and Technology.

Originally from Bristol, Beth Rowley, known for her unique vocal sound and love of the Blues, spent all last year working on her much-anticipated second album, following the success of her 2008 Top 10 album ‘Little Dreamer’.

She was nominated for Best Female - Solo Artist at the 2009 Brit Awards, where she faced fierce competition from Adele, MIA and Estelle and was beaten to the post by Welsh pop singer Duffy.
Beth has appeared on stage with some giants of the music world including performance with Burt Bacharach at the BBC Electric Proms.