Inspiring Learners Recognised in Stafford College's Student of the Month Awards

17 November 2025

All Courses

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 next round of nominees collect their awards. October'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 Richard Hickman, Senior Director of Planning at Indurent, for joining us and presenting the awards.

Jemima Collins - Award for the Faculty of Academic Studies

Jemima is an absolute credit to the College, from her inspirational super-curricular achievements to her work championing ADHD awareness. A second-year student of English, Photography and Politics, she brings maturity, enthusiasm and kindness to every lesson and her tutors value her thoughtful contributions and leadership as Tutor Rep. Over the summer, she completed MP Leigh Ingham’s Politics Summer School, debated social reform, met senior political figures and deepened her passion for public service. More recently, she spoke at the House of Commons with ADHD360, helping MPs understand the diagnostic process and lived experiences of ADHD. Her drive, compassion and commitment to advocacy set her apart and this makes her an exceptional student with a powerful future ahead.

Lacey Garbett - Award for the Faculty of Maths

Lacey has gone from strength to strength since joining college in September. Originally starting on a Level 1 Hair and Beauty course, she has now switched to the Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy while also studying GCSE Maths and English. In GCSE Maths, she has quickly become an outstanding student, determined, enthusiastic and always eager to improve. Despite never formally studying the subject before, she has taught herself at home through videos and books and is already aiming for a Grade 4 or 5 this November, with ambitions to tackle Higher Tier in the summer. Balancing excellent attendance, a part-time job and high-quality work, Lacey continues to inspire those around her.

Callum Trotter - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies

Callum has shown outstanding commitment and growth since starting year two of the Level 3 Public Service programme. With an impeccable 100% attendance and punctuality record, he continues to set an exceptional example to his peers. After receiving an unclassified grade in his behaviour exam last year, he showed remarkable resilience, attending every intervention session, practicing past papers and seeking support whenever needed. His hard work paid off with a Distinction in the resit and he is now on track for DDM. Callum also goes above and beyond to support others, helping new learners settle in and always showing professionalism and kindness. He truly is a future police officer in the making.

Sophie Roberts - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies

Sophie has made an outstanding impression on her work placement at Converge UK, showcasing determination and impeccable professionalism. While her academic progress is strong, it was her incredible impact in the workplace that truly stood out. During her placement, she helped identify key contacts for the company’s IT asset disposal services, work that directly contributed to 56 business opportunities. An astonishing 18 of these have already converted, generating around £500,000 of revenue, with more than £1.5 million still in discussion. Converge praised Sophie for her enthusiasm, focus and exceptional work ethic, recognising her as “a talented student with a bright future in the digital and tech industry”.

Jacylin Asafo-Agyei - Award for the Faculty of the Arts

Jacylin is an outstanding student, showcasing creativity, ambition and academic excellence on the Level 3 Film, TV & Media course. Over the summer, she produced an impressive 114-shot music video, showcasing an exceptional eye for colour, styling and visual communication. Despite a demanding commute from Biddulph, often carrying a camera, tripod, lighting and sound gear, she never lets challenges hold her back. Her commitment is reflected in every project, from award-winning short films to deeply thoughtful creative work. Her tutors describe her ambition as “well beyond expectations”, and she is on track for a triple distinction star. A truly exciting future in film and media awaits her.

Kyan Atkinson - Apprentice of the Month Award

Since joining Stafford College in 2023, Kyan has shown unwavering dedication, professionalism and a genuine eagerness to learn. Known for his “persistence beats resistance” attitude, he keeps going until he fully masters every task, whether in the workshop, the classroom or on-site. His assessor praises his maturity, warmth and integrity, explaining how he has earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Even outside of work, Kyan regularly comes into college or studies from home to strengthen his portfolio. A hardworking, humble and driven apprentice, Kyan is on a fantastic path toward a successful career.

Luca Goodhead - Award for the Faculty of Skills and Technology

Luca has shown exceptional commitment and positivity, even while managing personal challenges outside of college. His attendance is excellent, his behaviour exemplary and he’s admired by the whole team. After a recent English exam, when most students went home, Luca returned to the workshop to continue his tasks, showing real dedication. His practical work is consistently impressive and in English he’s described as a “pleasure to teach”, always focused and respectful. He takes great pride in developing his electrical skills, often photographing his work to show his brother, who is also an electrician. With his enthusiasm and strong work ethic, Luca is determined to secure an apprenticeship after Level 2 and the whole team is behind him.