Newcastle College celebrates outstanding students with '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 December round of nominees collect their awards. The presentations included a number of inspirational stories from staff about their nominees, including: overcoming personal challenges, going above and beyond on their chosen courses, exemplary attendance and admirable hard work. We are blown away hearing lecturers recall why they nominated our deserving winners and their unique journeys to success.

Luke Laesch - Vocational Studies Award

Luke has proven to be an outstanding role model for his peers. With an impressive 91% attendance record and a consistent effort in class, he demonstrates unwavering commitment to his studies. This year, Luke progressed to the Supported Internship Programme and embarked on his first-ever work placement at the Dougie Mac E-Commerce Warehouse in Trentham. Over the past month, he has impressed both tutors and workplace staff with his positivity, confidence, and ability to quickly adapt to his new role. Despite facing challenges with learning and social interaction, Luke is determined to grow in independence. He sets himself personal and professional goals, continually pushing outside his comfort zone. The staff at the warehouse have praised Luke’s positive attitude, open communication, and commitment, recognizing the significant strides he’s made.

Skye Brown - English & Maths Award

This term, Skye participated in a vocational English project centered around the theme of "Homelessness"—a subject close to her heart, as she has faced the challenges of homelessness herself. Despite the sensitivity of the topic, Skye used this opportunity to educate her peers, sharing her story and offering valuable insights into the obstacles associated with such an experience. Through her engagement, Skye has created thought-provoking work, including case studies, opinion articles, and presentations. She even took on the role of a Citizen’s Advice volunteer in an assessment needs interview, demonstrating her creativity and empathy. Skye’s tutor highlighted her constructive suggestions and guidance, which made the project more meaningful for everyone involved. Skye’s confidence has blossomed throughout this journey—she has become more vocal, engaged, and self-assured in class, sharing her passion for this important topic.

Missi-Jayne Moore - Academic & Creative Studies Award

Missi-Jaye has excelled in her Personal Progression Project, creating an exceptional PowerPoint and demonstrating a proactive approach by attending talks, visiting galleries, and conducting independent research to shape her future plans. Her creative work, particularly her heat-press prints on fabric with intricate stitching, stands out as a testament to her talent and experimentation with various materials and techniques. Her commitment to achieving high grades is evident in her work ethic and professionalism, keeping her on track for a Distinction in the project. After careful evaluation of her strengths and progression routes, Missi-Jaye has decided to take a Gap Year to pursue work as a freelance artist. Having already sold her creations at makers markets and on platforms like Etsy, she is well on her way to a bright and successful future in the arts.

Macy Abel-White - Vocational Studies Award

Macy has shown outstanding dedication in her second year of the Education and Early Years T Level qualification. Macy consistently gives 100% to her studies and has formed strong, positive relationships with her classmates, who value her support and guidance. She confidently shares her experiences from her family’s fostering journey and her placement, linking them to theoretical knowledge and showcasing her deep understanding of child development. At her placement with Forsbrook Nursery School, Macy has received glowing feedback for her initiative, independence, and proactive attitude. Her employer praises her for contributing to classroom activities without guidance, managing responsibilities effectively, and being a valued team member. Academically, Macy excels, having achieved a Grade B in her first-year exams and being predicted a Distinction for her final year.

Holly Smethurst - Academic & Creative Studies Award

Recognised for her outstanding dedication and exceptional achievements in her BTEC Applied Science program, Holly's conscientious and hardworking nature has resulted in distinctions across all coursework, with an impressive trajectory towards achieving DDD. Despite overcoming personal challenges, she has excelled academically, particularly in practical chemistry, where she shined in tasks like manufacturing aspirin and exploring the impact of optical isomerism in drug design. She also thrived in Medical Physics (Unit 21), aligning with her goal of becoming a diagnostic radiographer. Beyond her studies, Holly has balanced significant caring responsibilities, supporting her mother through pancreatitis and assisting her grandfather after a stroke. These experiences have inspired her aspiration to pursue Radiography/Diagnostic Imaging, and she has already submitted university applications to Keele, Derby, Liverpool, and Leeds.

Adam Whitehead - Apprentice of the Month Award

Recognised for his outstanding progress and dedication, Adam is excelling on his apprenticeship journey to become a maintenance engineer. His Assessor nominated him for his impressive academic success, achieving five Distinction grades and one Pass, and for his hard work and positive attitude with his employer, Sodexo. Adam consistently completes assessor tasks to a high standard and shows enthusiasm for learning new knowledge, skills, and behaviors. At the University Hospital North Midlands, Adam has become a vital member of the estates team. He excels in fault-finding and maintaining critical machines, understanding their essential role in hospital theatres. His employer has praised his exceptional performance, highlighting his ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Amelia Boulton - Professional Studies Award

Despite facing health challenges, Amelia is excelling in her second year of the Level 3 Esports programme, consistently achieving Distinction grades and demonstrating remarkable dedication to her studies. Amelia has proudly represented NSCG Esports on several occasions, working with organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and LilaConnect. Her initiative shines through her hands-on approach to learning, exemplified when she raised over £60 for the CRY Charity by organizing a cake sale as part of a marketing event. As a passionate advocate for women in Esports, she consistently brings a balanced perspective to this male-dominated field. Beyond her studies, Amelia is an inspiring advocate for young people with diabetes. She is set to speak at the Parliamentary Conference for Young People, addressing MPs in February as part of her advocacy efforts.

Toyah Copeland - Professional Studies Award

Nominated by her tutor, Heather Rushton, Toyah’s journey is marked by determination, resilience, and a genuine dedication to helping others. Having worked as a Learning Support Assistant and completing an apprenticeship in Supported Learning, Toyah has gained extensive experience in both secondary education and Special Educational Needs. Her ambition to pursue a joint honours degree in Psychology and Education reflects her commitment to a career in teaching or counselling. She excels in her studies, always staying ahead, and thrives on acquiring new skills. Recently elected Class Rep, Toyah inspires and motivates her peers with her leadership and compassion. Her dedication to supporting others, particularly students facing challenges, has been a hallmark of her journey, previously earning her a “Rising Star” nomination from her employer.