Newcastle College celebrates top talent in ‘Student of the Month’ Awards
11 November 2025
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 first round of nominees for the new academic year 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 Paul Hawkins from Plinkfizz, for joining us and presenting the awards.
Avani Mittal - Award for the Faculty of Academic and Creative Studies
Avani has shown incredible passion and ambition in pursuing a future in aero-engineering, a field where she’s already making her mark. From her early fascination with flight and involvement in the RAF Cadets, to completing the ‘Elevate Her Aviation’ programme and work experience with Bird Bellows Plc and LNER, Avani continually pushes boundaries and continually seeks out opportunities for growth. Alongside studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Engineering, she’s also exploring AI in aviation for her EPQ, which led her to get in contact with the CEO of DassunX in India. Avani combines technical talent with outstanding interpersonal skills and we cannot wait to see where her career takes her!
Devonte Hill - Award for the Faculty of Vocational Studies
From his very first visit to NSCG, Devonte made a lasting impression with his maturity, leadership, and compassion. Previously a youth leader supporting young people across the city, he’s continued to show incredible initiative and empathy in college, helping to create a positive and inclusive environment for his peers. Having recently been elected as a Student Representative, Devonte’s thoughtful leadership and teamwork shine through in everything he does. Whether he’s supporting classmates, asking insightful questions, or assisting staff, his enthusiasm truly embodies our core values of respect, teamwork and curiosity.
Freddie Smith - Award for the Faculty of Professional Studies
Since starting the T Level Digital Coding and Technology programme in September 2024, Freddie has impressed staff with his enthusiasm, creativity and technical skill. In class, he engages fully in tasks and consistently provides thoughtful, insightful contributions. Freddie has also excelled in his work placement at Bennett Architectural Aluminium Solutions, where he applied his digital skills to develop marketing materials, support website projects and contribute to digital marketing initiatives. His mentor praised his professionalism, creativity and technical awareness, highlighting the significant impact he has made on the team. He also played a lead role during T Level Week, presenting to Skills England and speaking confidently with business and national policy leaders.
Eva-Jean Lynch - Award for Skills and Technology
Eva-Jean is a standout Year 2 T Level Engineering student, balancing her studies and work placement alongside additional responsibilities as the eldest child at home. Her passion for engineering began at school and have only flourished throughout her T Level journey, impressing tutors and industry professionals alike. Known for her quirky humour, Eva-Jean brings energy to every room she enters. Feedback from her placement has been exceptional, with colleagues praising her inquisitive nature and unique approach to learning. Combining technical skill and resilience, Eva-Jean truly embodies the spirit of the T Level programme.
Raziya Akhtar - Apprentice of the Month Award
Despite joining her programme five weeks later than her peers, Raziya’s determination and dedication have seen her quickly catch up and excel. Her work is consistently high quality, often submitted ahead of deadlines and she is on track to achieve a Distinction. Raziya’s no-nonsense attitude and eagerness to learn make her a respected and valued member of both NSCG and her workplace, Envisage, where she works with design software and CNC machines. Her confidence has grown so much that she now covers holidays for operators in the CNC and Tooling department. Raziya’s hard work, perseverance and commitment are truly inspiring and she continues to impress everyone around her.
Phoebe Moon - Award for the Faculty of the Arts
Phoebe has made an outstanding start to her first year on the Musical Theatre course, achieving 100% attendance and Distinction grades across her work so far. Her dedication and independence shine through in every lesson, from dance to singing and acting, and she has already taken part in three college performances this term! Outside of college, Phoebe volunteers with the Gatehouse Juniors Group and helps at Walton Hall Academy, running piano lessons and gaining valuable experience to support her goal of becoming an SEN Teacher. With rehearsals for the pantomime Jack’s Giant Adventure underway, Phoebe continues to demonstrate passion, commitment and outstanding talent.
Leanne Morris - Adult Education Award
Leanne has made an outstanding start on her Access Social Science course, impressing tutors with her diligence, motivation and teamwork. She is on track to achieve high grades across all subjects while balancing the demands of being a mum and working part-time. Her previous experience at BET 365 include supporting clients facing gambling, financial and personal challenges, which have inspired her to pursue a career helping others in a professional capacity. Leanne has also been recognised by her peers as Class Rep, demonstrating her leadership and dedication to supporting those around her. Leanne’s passion for helping vulnerable people and her determination to succeed academically make her an inspiring member of the NSCG community.
Congratulations to all our students on their outstanding achievements and the admirable commitment shown to their studies.
