Inspirational students recognised in Newcastle College’s first ‘Student of the Month’ Awards of the year
03 October 2025
Each month Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group hold a ‘Student of the Month’ awards presentation that highlights and recognises the individual effort, progress and dedication of students who go above and beyond throughout the year.
This month saw the first round of nominees for the new academic year collect their awards. September's inspiring winners were selected for a variety of reasons from standing out in their chosen studies, their inspiring ability to overcome adversity and their commitment to supporting the local community. We want to say a huge thank you to Steve Tellwright, People & Quality Director at Capula, for joining us and presenting the awards.
Maria-Diana Voinea - Award for the Faculty of Academic and Creative Studies
Maria-Diana has been recognised for her exceptional academic dedication and intellectual curiosity. Arriving in the UK from Romania in 2016 speaking little English, she has shown remarkable determination and achievement. Her passion for Law shines through her essay The Allure of Law and her application to study at Somerville College, Oxford. With insightful reading choices and an impressive Extended Project Qualification on global penal systems, Maria-Diana’s academic potential is outstanding and continues to grow.
Lexi Chambers-Dean – Award for the Faculty of Vocational Studies
Lexi is recognised for her outstanding commitment, resilience and ambition throughout her T Level in Education and Early Years. Excelling academically, she achieved an impressive grade B in her first year and grade 4s in English and Maths. Her placement provider praised her professionalism and dedication, offering her summer employment after being so impressed by her work. Despite personal challenges, Lexi’s determination to achieve her goals has never wavered, making her an inspiration to her peers.
Courtney Buxton - Award for the Faculty of Vocational Studies
Courtney has been recognised for her positivity, resilience and determination throughout her time at NSCG. Despite managing a painful injury, she has continued to attend college and give her best in every area of study. Her enthusiasm, kindness and encouragement have made her a key source of support and motivation for her peers. Staff in the Foundation Department have been deeply impressed by her upbeat attitude and leadership potential, describing her as an inspiration to everyone around her.
Max Bates - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies
Max is an exemplary student on the T Level in Business Management and Administration course, demonstrating dedication, professionalism and resilience. He has impressed both at college and on placement, completing 191 hours, well above target, and earning praise from Stoke-on-Trent City Council for his maturity and positivity. Achieving the highest score on a challenging core paper and a B overall in year one, Max also supports peers by sharing his study tips. His quiet resilience and commitment set an excellent example for others.
Oliver Buckley & Stanley Hetherington - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies
Oliver and Stanley have been recognised for their outstanding act of kindness and community spirit. On 22 September, the pair assisted a distressed lady by helping pack and carry her shopping, even returning to retrieve her forgotten handbag, an action so commendable that a member of the public contacted the college to praise their compassion and politeness. With 100% attendance and a consistently professional approach, Oliver and Stanley have both shown great resilience and dedication in their Uniformed Protective Services studies. Their compassion, integrity and strong sense of duty reflect the qualities of future public service professionals.
Jayden Davison - Award for English and Maths
Jayden is recognised for his enthusiasm, resilience and positive approach to learning in both English and Maths. Overcoming personal challenges, he has shown commitment across his studies, particularly excelling in Art. His English tutor praises his attention to detail and thoughtful writing, while in Maths, his engagement and contribution to lessons stand out. Jayden’s maturity, motivation and progress have impressed his tutors and highlight his great potential.
Eric Blackburn - Award for the Faculty of the Arts
Eric is recognised for his remarkable personal growth, confidence and creativity during his time at NSCG. Overcoming personal challenges, he has developed into a confident and talented student, excelling in drawing and life drawing. His positivity, teamwork and independence have flourished, supported by his volunteer work at a local charity shop. Recently, he represented students on an interview panel for a key leadership appointment, a testament to his confidence and professionalism.
Congratulations to all our students on their outstanding achievements and the admirable commitment shown to their studies.
