Every year, we gather to honour the achievements of our exceptional students at our Student of the Year Awards, and this year's event held on the 7th July was a truly unforgettable celebration of success, determination and talent.

With an interval show provided by our Performing Arts students and flowers grown and arranged by our Propellor students, the night brought together the very best of Abingdon & Witney College - a proud showcase of the skills, collaboration and hard work that define our college values.

Set within the magnificent surroundings of Blenheim Palace, we welcomed parents, guardians, governors, staff, and friends for an evening dedicated to recognising students who have gone above and beyond over the past academic year.

Each of the College's eleven faculties selected two standout students: one to receive the Inspirational Student Award and one to receive the Overall Achievement Award. With just under 14,000 students now enrolled across the College, this year's winners represent a truly remarkable group of individuals.

From these twenty-two award winners, one Student is selected by the senior leadership team and governors as the College's Overall Student of the Year. For 2025, that honour was awarded to Freya Crawford, a first-year Performing Arts student.

Freya’s nomination is as follows:

Freya has demonstrated exceptional resilience, dedication, and talent throughout her time on the course. From the outset, Freya’s passion and work ethic shone through, despite significant personal challenges. Initially enrolled on the Level 2 Award to accommodate her family responsibilities, she quickly progressed to the Level 2 Diploma due to the outstanding quality of her work. Her continued excellence led to a further promotion to the Level 3 Diploma, where she consistently met deadlines and exceeded expectations. Freya not only completed all required work to a high standard but also took on additional tasks to ensure she met the demanding Level 3 criteria. Her dedication extended to performance work, where she prepared thoroughly for auditions and, when offered a main role mid-rehearsal, rose to the challenge with professionalism and enthusiasm. Freya is a shining example of perseverance, excellence and kindness, and she is truly deserving of this recognition.

Freya's Lecturer and Progress Coach, Calum James, said:

"Freya has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment, professionalism, and creativity throughout the year. She leads by example, supports her peers, and continues to grow with every opportunity. Her work ethic is outstanding, and her performances are a reflection of both her talent and her dedication to her craft. She is an absolute credit to the College and to the Performing Arts department."

Also recognised on the night were this year's runners-up for Student of the Year. Melissa Pratley secured second place for her extraordinary determination and achievement in English and Maths after missing much of her secondary education due to a battle with illness. Lydia Austin, who took third place, was recognised for her remarkable achievements within the Land Based Industries faculty. She has shown extraordinary resilience and commitment to her studies and future career in the equine industry.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the inspirational and high-achieving students recognised at this year's ceremony.

Special thanks go to Mindful Education, who sponsored the cash prize, to Propeller for the beautiful floral arrangements, to Blenheim Palace for once again providing the perfect setting and to the dedicated College staff who made the evening possible.

It's a privilege to support students on their journey – and to see them shine so brightly as they embrace everything it means to Be You. Be Extraordinary.