THE achievements of the most inspirational and aspiring students at Swindon College were celebrated at a special awards ceremony earlier this month.

Further education students at the North Star college celebrated their work during the past year at the awards ceremony, which was also attended by Swindon Mayor, Councillor Andrew Bennett, college governors, the senior management team and prominent local business figures.

The dignitaries were among the 120 guests who, alongside tutors and curriculum area managers, enjoyed hearing inspirational testimonials of success, inspiration and commitment of the winners of the 36 different awards.

Andrew Miller, principal and chief executive of Swindon College, said the evening lauded the highlights of achievements and inspirational work by students.

“We are here tonight to celebrate the achievements of our award-winning students, who have worked so hard to reach personal goals and gain qualifications," he said.

"It is also an opportunity for the college to show the community the diverse range of provisions on offer at the college and to emphasise the achievements of all our students.

"Congratulations to you all.”

Awards included the Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award in memory of Reverend and former governor Carol Stone, which was presented to Jordan Berwick with the Overall Achievement Award going to Jenny Cavanagh.

Jenny Cavanagh, who was presented with the Overall Achievement Awards, said the college had given her the start to a career in hairdressing.

She said: “I can’t believe it. When my name was announced I was in shock. I’m so happy though, this really does mean a lot to me and my future career as a hairdresser."