Outstanding learners honoured at annual Student of the Year Awards

The very best of Abingdon & Witney College was celebrated at the annual Student of the Year Awards last night, as 22 of our most exceptional students were recognised for their achievements. Held in the stunning Orangery at Blenheim Palace, the prestigious event honoured those whose dedication and personal growth have made a lasting impact throughout the academic year.

Bringing together students, staff, families, governors and employers, the event shines a spotlight on learners from across the College. Each faculty selects students whose commitment to their studies, contribution to college life, or determination in overcoming challenges exemplifies the very best of what can be achieved through education and hard work.

Guests enjoyed an evening of inspiring stories and heartfelt recognition, as well as outstanding performances from our Performing Arts learners, showcasing the breadth of achievement that exists across the College.

The highest honour of the evening, Overall Student of the Year, was awarded to Luke Payne, a Carpentry apprentice at our Bicester Construction Skills Centre, employed by Dorchester Living, whose journey reflects the transformative power of education and the opportunities available to learners who embrace every challenge and opportunity presented to them.

Luke's nomination was as follows:

"Luke began his apprenticeship with us as a Level 2 student and initially found the programme challenging. After spending a year gaining valuable on-site experience, he progressed onto his Level 3 apprenticeship. Only a few months into Level 3, Luke experienced a significant personal setback but despite significant challenges, Luke continued to attend both work and college consistently, demonstrating remarkable resilience, commitment, and dedication to his apprenticeship and long-term career.

Since then, he has gone from strength to strength. His performance in recent months has been exceptional, with site carpenters specifically requesting to work alongside him. Over recent months, Luke has stepped up significantly, taking on the role of the main carpenter on-site. He has confidently corrected work completed by subcontract carpenters and shown strong leadership in prioritising tasks effectively.

Luke has also taken on a mentoring role, supporting a Level 2 apprentice working alongside him, and consistently demonstrates excellent communication skills by raising issues and collaborating effectively with the wider site team.

At college, Luke is always punctual, prepared, and fully engaged in his learning. He continually challenges himself to complete tasks within set timeframes while maintaining a high standard of workmanship. He is proactive in reviewing and improving his own work, ensuring it meets his own high expectations.

The progress Luke has made from Level 2 to Level 3 is a clear testament to his personal growth, maturity, and increasing confidence. He should be extremely proud of how far he has come."

Luke's Training Coordinator, Katy Hallatt, said:

“Luke’s journey has been truly inspiring. Despite facing significant challenges along the way, he has remained committed to his apprenticeship, developing into a highly skilled and respected carpenter. His resilience, professionalism and willingness to support others make him a worthy winner, and we couldn’t be prouder of his achievements.”

Also recognised were this year's Student of the Year runners-up. Yannick Grogan, an HR apprentice at University of Oxford was awarded second place for his progress, resilience, and unwavering positivity. Third place went to Illia Shumanskyi, a Level 3 Games Development student, in recognition of his exceptional dedication, focus, and discipline.

Alongside the overall winners, students from all faculties were recognised for their outstanding achievements and inspirational contributions. Collectively, the award winners represent the values that sit at the heart of the College: ambition, excellence, resilience and community spirit; encompassing everything it means to 'Be You. Be Extraordinary’. Our full list of winners is below:

Principal and Chief Executive, Jacqui Canton, said:
“We are immensely proud of all those recognised this evening. Their success reflects not only their determination and hard work, but also the commitment of the staff who support them every step of the way. These awards celebrate the talent, ambition and sense of community that make our College such a special place.”

As another successful academic year comes to a close, the Student of the Year Awards continue to celebrate the individuals who inspire others through their hard work, courage and achievements. Their stories demonstrate that success comes in many forms and that every student's journey deserves recognition.

Congratulations to all of this year's Student of the Year winners. Your achievements make the entire College community proud and inspire future generations of learners to strive for excellence.