Students from The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) have been recognised for their outstanding achievements at this year’s Student STAR Awards.
The categories for the awards are based on TCCG’s values: Can do, Caring, Celebrating, Consistent, Connected, Courageous and Creative. Each category saw three candidates shortlisted from hundreds of nominations, with the winners receiving a trophy and the runners-up a certificate of commendation.
The Consistent award went to 19 year old Zoe-Jade Hallett, a Professional Cookery student from Cornwall College Saltash.
Zoe said: “It feels great to win the Consistent award and I really didn’t expect it. Three years ago I started cooking, that was when I first realised that I wanted to be a chef. My first cookery lessons at school inspired me to continue onto Cornwall College Saltash, where I am lucky enough to be working in a refurbished restaurant and professional kitchen.”
Zoe’s tutor at the Saltash campus Chris Penk describes her as “inspirational”.
“Zoe pushes herself all the time and she is great at supporting other students. The STAR Awards gives us a chance to celebrate her achievements and give a reward back to someone who works so hard, which is just amazing.” Chris explained.
In another category, Helen Williams, who is studying a foundation degree in Animal Behaviour and Psychology at Cornwall College Newquay, won the Connected award.
Senior tutor Gill Tonkin nominated Helen for the award. Gill said: “Helen joined us at Newquay and immediately became fully involved in college life. While fully committing herself to her studies she has also volunteered to be class representative for her group regularly taking it upon herself to ensure that other class members are kept up to date with events and activities. Helen also joined the Student Union, where her role has been invaluable.
Gill continued: “Helen has thrown herself into organizing various events and promoting the Student elections. When I last spoke to her she was in the throes of organizing some energetic activities for Sports Relief which she will no doubt cajole students and staff to partake in. An all-round good student who is without doubt a great ‘connector’ and well deserving of this award.”
Among the guests on the night was Colonel Edward Bolitho, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, who was representing His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall. Colonel Bolitho presented the Caring Award, generously sponsored by the Duke of Cornwall’s Benevolent Fund.
Sponsors for the event included Niddocks, Truroian, C.Brown & Son, DJ in Cornwall, University of Plymouth, Next Steps South West, Cornwall College Business, Cornwall by Kernow and Domino’s Pizza.
Principal and Chief Executive for The Cornwall College Group Raoul Humphreys said: “Our annual STAR Awards ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students, recognising the growth of high achievers from across The Cornwall College Group.
“While every student’s story is unique, they all share some important traits, those of commitment, endeavour and character. You will hear stories of students blossoming through their studies, shrinking violets transforming into confident and engaging members of the community. There are inspirational young people who have overcome incredible adversity to not only succeed, but excel in their work and lives” continued Raoul.
“But the roots of their success are found in the support provided by their families, friends and the incredible staff at The Cornwall College Group. Many of our winners have said they would not be here this evening without the unrivalled support and dedication of their tutors.
“While this is the culmination of a great deal of hard work for our students, it is just the beginning of their adventures into the wider world and we wish them all the success in the world. They are all winners and impeccable ambassadors for The Cornwall College Group.”
For more information on the range of courses available across The Cornwall College Group visit www.cornwall.ac.uk or call 0330 123 2523.
