Leek College Celebrates Exceptional Students with Recognition Awards
12 February 2026
To celebrate exceptional students, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group hold a Student Recognition Awards presentation that highlights and recognises the individual effort, progress and dedication of those who go above and beyond throughout the year.
Each nominated student has demonstrated a strong commitment to their studies, consistently going above and beyond in their coursework, showing resilience, professionalism and a positive attitude that sets them apart as role models for their peers.
Josh Ferns - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies
With an impressive 100% attendance and punctuality record, Josh approaches every task with focus and determination, consistently producing high-quality work and achieving Merit grades across his assessments. His excellent organisation and commitment have made him a standout student and a brilliant role model for his peers.
In lessons, Josh is polite, engaged and increasingly confident, contributing positively to discussions and the wider college community. Beyond the classroom, he proudly represents the College through his involvement with Leek Town FC, where his coach praises him for his professionalism both on and off the pitch. With ambitions to become a PE teacher, Josh is already demonstrating the values and drive needed for a successful future.
Eli Allen - Award for the Faculty of Vocational Studies
Known for his positive attitude and enthusiasm, Eli approaches every task with focus and a genuine desire to improve. He completes all work to an excellent standard, often going one step further by asking for additional challenges to stretch his skills and knowledge.
His recent work in Unit 2 particularly stood out, with outstanding presentations and role-play activities that showcased confidence, creativity and strong understanding. The level of preparation and professionalism he demonstrated set a fantastic example to others in the group. Eli is reliable, polite and always responds positively to feedback, using it to keep improving. A real pleasure to teach and a valued member of the class, he continues to impress with his commitment and work ethic.
Tamzen Jakeman - Award for the Faculty of Foundation Studies
Currently making excellent progress on her Level 1 Vocational Studies courses, Tamzen is consistently achieving distinction-level work, showing impressive focus and ability throughout her studies. Alongside her academic success, she is already thinking carefully about her future, taking part in Level 2 Public Services taster sessions to plan her next steps with confidence and ambition.
Tamzen is also a fantastic support to her peers, regularly helping others with online tasks, Teams activities and understanding assessments. Her kindness, patience and sense of responsibility make a real difference in the classroom. Her attendance has continued to improve following an unsettled start to the year, reflecting her resilience and determination to succeed.
Henry Johnson - Award for the Faculty of Skills and Technology
As an engineering student, Henry consistently demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, creativity and a genuine passion for mastering complex technical concepts. He actively engages in lessons, meets deadlines reliably and continually pushes himself to produce work of an excellent standard, qualities that truly reflect a future engineer in the making.
What makes Henry’s success even more inspiring is the way he thrives while working with an Education Health Care Plan. He makes excellent use of the support available, staying organised, focused and motivated, showing impressive maturity and determination. Henry is also a positive role model to his peers, demonstrating perseverance, responsibility and confidence to ask for help when needed.
Congratulations to all our students on their outstanding achievements and the admirable commitment shown to their studies.
Vocational Studies: Eli Allen & Matthew Johnson
Professional Studies: Josh Ferns
Maths: Tanisha Sunduza
Foundation Studies: Alex Ludlow & Tamzen Jakeman
Skills & Technology: Henry Johnson