Staff and students came together to celebrate outstanding academic and personal achievements at the annual CWA Student Awards ceremony on Wednesday 20^th June. Head of marketing and student services, Paul O’Shea, hosted the evening, which was held at the King’s Lynn Alive Corn Exchange. Students were recognised for their dedication and success across a number of subject areas, but the evening was not solely to recognise high-flying academics. Additional awards were presented for personal accomplishments and contributions to the community. Principal David Pomfret opened proceedings with a review of the academic year, speaking about cross-campus triumphs, success stories and achievements. This included the University Centre West Anglia (UcWA) graduation, apprenticeship awards, Worldskills UK and our fantastic 17/18 Norfolk Scholar result.

The principal expressed his pride in this year’s awards winners, and congratulated them for their hard work over the last 12 months. He said: “The student awards evening is one of my favourite nights of the year. To hear so many inspiring stories that illustrate our vision of changing life through learning is so powerful. Having all the staff who have supported the students on their journey attending as well is so important as without them the students could not have achieved such outstanding accomplishments.” Millie Stevens was announced as overall Student of the Year. Millie studies Level 3 Uniformed Services at the college’s King’s Lynn campus and, despite suffering from anxiety and panic attacks, has excelled during her time on the course, achieving a distinction in all units during her first year.

Millie’s lecturer, Jo Evans, nominated her for her willingness and eagerness to take part, saying: “Millie has never let her condition beat her. She has pushed herself in all areas and not once have her good humour, happy demeanour or grades suffered. She has always been willing to help others, and I am so proud of the obstacles that Millie has overcome.” Millie has successfully applied for university to study criminology, something that she would not have even considered a year ago, and is planning to join the Royal Air Force upon completion of her degree. About her success, Millie said: “I couldn’t believe when they said my name! I am so shocked but so proud to have won!” The Personal Achievement award was presented to Ellie Watts, a Bridge to Engagement student at the Providence Street campus.

When Ellie first joined CWA, she attended college for just half an hour each week, as she struggled severely with social interaction outside of her family circle. Due to her own determination to flourish, Ellie has overcome her anxieties and now attends college full-time. She has even been elected by her piers as a student rep due to her willingness to support and assist them. Her tutor, Kerri Benefer, said: “Ellie has continuously set herself goals to overcome the barriers that previously inhibited her from achieving. I am so proud of her progression." Ellie has now applied to study Bridge to Art & Design at King’s Lynn campus in September. Xena Govett, Level 3 Childhood Studies, received the award for Serving the Community. Xena supports the local Rainbows and Brownies groups, giving up her free time in order to provide activities for them to take part in.  As part of her role, she also teaches them beneficial life skills.

Despite the pressure of a juggling three days at college, two days of work experience and a part-time job each week, Xena refuses to give up her community work. Her passion is spending time with young children and supporting their development. She was nominated by care and early years lecturer Sasha Courtney-Jenner for being “a fantastic student who is generous, kind and compassionate.” Click here for the full list of awards, nominees and winners.