Stafford College celebrates student success with November '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 November 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. We want to say a huge thank you to Keele University's Executive Dean, Professor Anna Meredith, for joining our presentation and delivering our awards.

Eloise Mannion - Academic and Creative Studies Award

Eloise has shown incredible resilience and growth, overcoming difficult challenges, particularly during the COVID pandemic. Once quiet and withdrawn, she has blossomed into a confident and inspiring student. A valued member of the Student Council, Student Board, and College Xtra, she actively supports the Academic Faculty, from induction events to designing multiple carol service programs. Eloise demonstrates exceptional creativity across all her courses. In Photography, she engages independently, collaborating with real clients and building conceptual projects. Her Art project on loneliness showcased maturity and depth, while her passion for Film shines through unique, genre-infused work. On top of paid photography projects and retail sales, Eloise is gaining real-world experience and building a successful future.

Nancy Minshall - Vocational Studies Award

Since stepping inside the Graphic Design Studio in September 2023, Nancy has stood out as an exceptional student. Her superb summer project showcased creativity, curiosity, and dedication, setting the tone for her outstanding year. Nancy’s design work continues to impress, demonstrating sophistication and skill beyond her level. From branding and book covers to packaging and typography, she delivers work infused with care, determination, and a desire to improve. Currently, Nancy is collaborating with VCCP and Alton Towers on an advertising campaign while supporting her team with kindness and professionalism. Outside class, she’s redesigned menus for Riverbank Restaurant and represented the college at Open Events, inspiring others with her positivity.

Georgia Szamek - Vocational Studies Award

Currently studying on the Level 1 Hairdressing course, Georgia has already demonstrated an outstanding level of skill in her short time on the course. Her attendance and commitment have been exceptional, and her tutor describes her as an absolute pleasure to teach. She excels in customer service, making clients feel at ease and confident in her abilities. Georgia never hesitates to push herself, consistently volunteering to work on clients during commercial sessions. Her conscientious nature, exceptional talent, and eagerness to learn have led to high-quality work at this early stage. A mature, polite, and supportive team player, Georgia is well on her way to a successful career in hairdressing.

Benjamin Alcock - Professional Studies Award

Benjamin has been an outstanding, motivated student throughout his 4 years at college. Now completing his Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Physical Education, he has consistently pushed himself to exceed expectations, striving for first-class results. Benjamin’s goal is to teach physical education, particularly in early years. His recent work placement at Christ Church First School allowed him to apply his learning directly and step outside his comfort zone. Alongside his studies, Benjamin’s dedication shines through his coaching work. He received the Grassroots Game Changer Award for his commitment to coaching and managing under-8s and under-10s teams at Little Stoke Cricket Club. With plans to pursue a Level 6 degree at Staffordshire University, Benjamin’s future is incredibly bright.

Caitlin Wheeler - English & Maths Award

Caitlin has been recognised as an exceptional student who consistently demonstrates punctuality, attentiveness, and dedication. Her work is always beautifully presented, with colour coordination and neat handwriting. Going above and beyond, Caitlin studied over the October half-term with extra practice papers and revision guides. Her hard work shines through in her grades, progressing by two levels in record time – an incredible achievement for someone new to GCSEs. Caitlin’s positive attitude and resilience have transformed her learning journey, overcoming challenges from secondary education. She now serves as a role model for young adult learners, proving that with determination, perseverance, and a growth mindset, any barrier can be overcome.

Emma Langston - Skills & Technology Award

Emma has been recognized for her positive attitude, outstanding work ethic, and drive to excel since starting the two-year T Level in Design, Surveying, and Planning. Her tutor praises her commitment to achieving top grades, completing all assignments on time, and staying late to perfect her work. Emma has excelled in single and two-point perspective drawings and maths-based subjects. Her passion has shifted towards Civil Engineering, where she now aspires to secure a Degree Apprenticeship. Impressively, Emma secured a competitive placement with Civil Engineering firm Amey and sourced a second placement with the Regeneration Brainery boot camp. She also passed the challenging CSCS test with an incredible 47/50.

Lauren Spillard - Apprentice of the Month Award

Lauren has excelled in her apprenticeship, settling seamlessly into her role at Deans Accountants and tackling a diverse range of projects. She has gained experience in company accounts, sole traders, partnerships, personal tax returns, and recently started assisting with high-level forensic assignments, showcasing her advanced skills and adaptability. Her employer describes Lauren as a polite, professional, and hardworking team player, always eager to take on new challenges and support others. Her growing expertise and enthusiasm for forensic accountancy have particularly impressed her colleagues, who are excited to see her continued progress. Lauren’s dedication, teamwork, and passion for learning make her a deserving recipient of this award.