Achievements of York College students recognised at Reach Awards ceremony in National Railway Museum

THE achievements of York College students were celebrated at a glittering ceremony in York’s National Railway Museum on Thursday evening. (30 June)

More than 200 people, including students, their families and College staff and governors gathered for the second Reach Awards ceremony - the first one to welcome guests in-person since the Covid lockdown.

Winners were recognised for their academic and personal achievements across adult learner, apprentice and under-19 categories, as well as a number of special awards including the Governors’ and Principal’s Award.

Speaking at the dinner and awards ceremony, York College Chief Executive and Principal, Lee Probert, said it was ‘fabulous to be able to deliver the awards in person’.

He said: “All the students here tonight, whether nominees or winners, have an incredible story about their learning journey and it was heart-warming to see the commitment they put into their studies and their time at York College.”

Mr Probert told the students the difficulties they faced studying during lockdown had never been underestimated and said ‘nobody can take away what you have earned’.

“Above all – go off to be successful and know that we are proud of you.”

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Double award-winning joinery student, Abigail Stevens, 19, said: “I’m happy and excited and shocked. I just didn’t expect to win at all. I feel really proud tonight.

“But the tutors have been brilliant – they not only have knowledge but they know how to teach it to us in a fun way.”

Abigail’s proud mum, Christine said: “I’m tearful and overjoyed. She worked so hard and achieved this all on her own.”

Fellow award winner Louis Hollowed, 19, was also surprised by his win. “No way,” he said. “I was not expecting this then I saw my tutor come up on the big screens, saying all these things about my work.

“It’s been a great night all round.”

As well as the ceremony and dinner, the students were treated to a speech by award-winning actress, lawyer and charity campaigner Yvonne Okyere-Whalley.

York College’s final awards ceremony of the academic year takes place on Thursday July 7, when the College celebrates the achievements of its construction students and apprentices.

The York College Reach Awards 2022 results:

Over 19s

Contribution to College Life & Community Award, sponsored by Better York - Alison Mellor

Progression Award, Portakabin Ltd - Hidde Versloot

Inclusivity/Student Role Model Award, sponsored by York Minster - Matt Walton

Most Determined Student Award, sponsored by Mercure York - Sierra Harvey

Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by No 1. York - Steven Ryan

Apprentices

Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by Bettys and Taylors - Abigail Stevens

Inclusivity/Student Role Model Award, sponsored by Simpsons York - Connor Brown

Progression Award, sponsored by Britcom - Dylan Kay

Most Determined Student Award, sponsored by Severfield - Lindsay Walby