Newcastle College Celebrates Inspirational Students with October 'Student of the Month' Awards

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 October round of nominees collect their awards. The presentations included a number of inspirational stories from staff about their nominees, including: selfless volunteer work, overcoming personal challenges, going above and beyond on their chosen courses, exemplary attendance and hard work. A massive thank you to Paul Parry from LilaConnect for joining us and presenting the awards.

Keira White - Vocational Studies Award

Joining NSCG in September 2023, Keira successfully completed the Level 1 Vocational Studies program and, with a clear passion for early years and education, moved on to the Level 2 BTEC First Award in Children’s Play, Learning, and Development. Since beginning this new course, she has excelled in every lesson, demonstrating remarkable commitment with 100% attendance across all areas, including GCSE English and Maths.

Keira consistently completes tasks to a high standard, working diligently on each assignment and showing resilience when faced with challenges. She excels both independently and within teams, truly embodying the Early Years and Education Studies Code of Conduct.

Aisha Mohammed - Vocational Studies Award

Aisha has shown extraordinary resilience, dedication, and positivity, consistently overcoming personal challenges to maintain excellent attendance and engagement in her studies. Her commitment and perseverance are truly inspiring.

Her positive attitude uplifts those around her, motivating classmates to approach their own work with enthusiasm. Aisha is always ready to support her peers, offering patience, understanding, and words of encouragement. Her kindness, respect, and selflessness make her a joy to work with.

Her tutor described her as a role model, stating, “Aisha’s determination to progress and her positive influence on others deserve recognition and celebration.”

Thasnim Ahmed - Academic and Creative Studies Award

Thasnim’s exceptional contribution to this year’s Y11 HP Essay Competition earned her this recognition. Her essay, analyzing the effectiveness of long-term development aid in poverty-stricken areas, stood out for its thorough research, balanced arguments, and evidence-based conclusions, free from bias.

Her tutor praised her sensitivity to the cultural impact of Eurocentric aid programmes, a topic that first captured attention during her Honours Programme application. This thoughtful approach highlights Thasnim’s commitment to meaningful change.

With aspirations to become an Environmental Scientist, Thasnim is on an incredible path, and this is just the beginning of her journey.

Abby Pye - Academic and Creative Studies Award

Abby’s nomination follows her impressive entry in this year’s Y11 HP Essay Competition, where she explored the unique topic of constants and their role in explaining the human condition. Her essay captivated readers, weaving a nuanced and stylistically sophisticated narrative. Beginning with a quote from Nobel laureate Richard Feynman—"The hand of God wrote that number..."—and concluding with one from quantum physics pioneer Wolfgang Pauli, her work truly stood out.

Currently pursuing A-Level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, Abby’s commitment and exceptional attendance highlight her dedication. She aspires to become a vet, and with her determination and talent, she’s well on her way.

Jessica Hickman - Apprentice of the Month Award

Since starting her course, Jess has demonstrated unwavering commitment to improving the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. She became a safeguarding champion, inspiring colleagues to reflect and innovate. Through training, Jess implemented talking mats, enabling a resident to voice concerns about their care, leading to meaningful improvements in communication and practice.

At David Lewis Care, Jess is viewed as an invaluable team member. Her Development Manager highlighted her pivotal role in helping a resident gain paid employment as a co-presenter and trainer for epilepsy training, enhancing the program with authentic lived experience. Jess’s professionalism, inclusivity, and dedication embody the forward-thinking principles championed by the Care Quality Commission.

Elliott Durham - Professional Studies Award

Elliott’s journey at NSCG has been impressive. After excelling in the BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Public Services, he progressed to the BTEC Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services course this September. Outside college, Elliott is a dedicated cadet with Newcastle RAF Squadron 45, gaining valuable military skills each week.

Aiming to build his confidence, Elliott volunteered with The Inspirational Learning Group last year and has since taken on paid roles supporting student competitions. His dedication extends to the Newcastle Amateur Operatic Society, where he performed in Beauty and the Beast and assisted the stage crew—all while maintaining excellent attendance and performance in college. With aspirations to join the RAF as a Weapons Systems Operator or Police Dog Handler, Elliott’s commitment is truly commendable.

Poppy Bowen-Jones - English & Maths Award

Poppy is a dedicated student, demonstrating resilience and commitment in all areas of her studies. Recently, she achieved 63% on a class-based math mock assessment, a result that would earn a solid Grade 4! Her teachers are hopeful this success will carry through to her November resits, as her strong work ethic continues to shine.

Outside the classroom, Poppy is a talented dancer in Tap, Ballet, Contemporary, and Modern Jazz, where her focus and discipline mirror her academic approach. Additionally, she completed a charity run for Cancer Research in honor of her grandparent—an achievement close to her heart. Her tutor shared, “Poppy is a pleasure, inspiring her peers with her drive and positive attitude.”

Lexi Brown - Art and Creative Studies Award

Lexi has made a phenomenal start in her BTEC Photography and Digital Media studies, showcasing passion, creativity, and professionalism. Alongside excelling in coursework, she has embraced real-world opportunities, collaborating with Slater’s Country Inn to create stunning promotional campaigns, including digital advertisements and social media content. Her keen eye for detail and flair for creativity have significantly enhanced the venue’s marketing materials.

Lexi’s skills have been honed through two years of freelance work, with ambitions to expand her business into TV and film advertising. She is excelling in her A1 Skills Development project, on track for a distinction, and has also partnered with Performing Arts students, capturing dynamic dance portfolios.