Newcastle College celebrates the New Year with student recognition awards

16 January 2026

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, we’re joined by our incredible December winners and they were selected for a variety of reasons, from shining in their chosen courses to impressing everyone with their commitment and dedication. We want to say a huge thank you to Chris Plant, Interim CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce for presenting this months awards.

Sam Foster - Award for the Faculty of Academic Studies

From the very start of his studies at NSCG, Sam has shown himself to be a focused and determined learner with a clear goal of building a career in film. His Media Studies work has been produced to a professional standard, with his magazine covers being selected for the end-of-year Art and Design exhibition. Sam’s critical thinking also shines through in class discussions, where he confidently explores film theory and socio-political themes.

Beyond the classroom, Sam has excelled on the BFI Academy, founded his own production company, Foster Films and won Best Short Film at the Stoke 100 Film Festival. A truly outstanding achievement and with a very exciting future ahead, well done Sam!

Emily Bradshaw - Award for the Faculty of Vocational Studies

Since joining NSCG in 2024, Emily has built strong foundations for learning and adapted impressively to college life, showing maturity beyond her years. Now studying on the Level 1 Personal Growth and Wellbeing course alongside her GCSEs, she approaches every challenge with focus and positivity. Her exceptional attendance reflects a strong work ethic and clear understanding of the importance of consistency.

Academically, Emily recently achieved a Grade 5 in GCSE English, a fantastic result that highlights her perseverance and dedication. Alongside this, she has grown in confidence, contributing more in sessions and bringing warmth and humour to the classroom. A well-deserved recognition and a brilliant achievement, congratulations Emily!

Sara Yousufzai - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies

Sara has been on a truly inspiring journey of growth, resilience and determination during her time at NSCG. After leaving school with a grade 1 in Maths and a grade 3 in English, Sara refused to let these results define her. Through sustained effort and commitment, she has achieved a grade 4 in Maths and an outstanding grade 6 in English, an exceptional turnaround that reflects her perseverance and belief in herself.

Now studying Level 2 Information Technology, Sara continues to go above and beyond, regularly attending extra sessions and supporting others in class. Balancing her studies alongside caring responsibilities at home, she shows remarkable maturity, compassion and focus. A powerful example of what determination can achieve.

Lucy Dowie - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies

Lucy has had an excellent start to her first year on the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science. With an impressive 96% attendance, Lucy shows real commitment and enthusiasm for her studies. She has achieved strong mock exam results, including a Merit in Functional Anatomy and a Distinction in her Sports Massage presentation, demonstrating growing confidence and excellent communication skills. She consistently engages well in lessons, responds positively to feedback and thrives in team activities.

Alongside her studies, Lucy is a key member of the NSCG Hockey team, recently crowned regional champions and heading to the AoC Sport Nationals. Balancing sport and study so effectively, she is firmly on track for a successful future in sport or physiotherapy.

Isabella Whitehouse - Apprentice of the Month

Isabella has had an outstanding learning journey on her Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship. Having previously completed a Level 2 Customer Service qualification, Isabella embraced the increased demands of Level 3 with motivation, resilience and an exceptional work ethic. She consistently meets deadlines, produces work of a very high standard and approaches learning with maturity and positivity.

Alongside her studies, she now lives independently, managing her finances responsibly and demonstrating impressive personal growth. In the workplace, Isabella is a valued member of the hairdressing salon team, always willing to support colleagues and customers. Her kindness and determination truly set her apart.

Jessica Croome - Award for the Faculty of Arts

Inspired from a young age by her father’s career as a TV cameraman, Jessica has developed strong technical skills and creative confidence, which shine throughout her studies. Across both Year 1 and Year 2, she has consistently achieved Distinctions and is now on track to exceed her target grade of DDD, producing high-quality work across a wide range of genres.

Alongside her course, Jessica has built impressive industry experience, supported professional photographers, delivered commercial projects and even organised a successful Dogs Trust charity photoshoot, raising over £400 in a single day.

Farhan Ahmed - Award for the Faculty of English & Maths

After joining NSCG in 2024, Farhan transitioned from Sport to Information Technology and is now working towards a Level 3 Diploma alongside resitting GCSE Maths. Facing multiple resits with a positive mind-set, he has shown true perseverance, maintaining 100% attendance, sitting front and centre in every session and actively seeking feedback and support.

Farhan has dedicated significant time to independent study, completing over 500 questions on Century Tech, attending revision sessions and even requiring extension work due to his progress. His conscientious attitude extends across his IT studies, where he’s looking forward to the opportunities ahead.