Castlewellan student lifts Excellence Award

Castlewellan student lifts Excellence Award

20 January 2021

SOUTH Eastern Regional College has recognised 257 students from its Downpatrick, Bangor, Lisburn and Newtownards campuses as part of the college’s annual Excellence Awards.

The awards are one of the highlights of the college calendar. This year the ceremony, unfortunately, had to be cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions. However students will receive their award certificate by post.

Mary Prichard (25), from Castlewellan, who studied on the BTEC Level 3 Travel and Tourism programme, was recognised with an award for her ‘commitment to learning in the face of a challenge’.

Mary said the award topped off an enjoyable time spent studying the course. “I am delighted to be recognised with this award,” she said.

“I really loved the Travel and Tourism course and hope to pursue a career in this sector, and perhaps further qualifications.  

“I had plans in place and a post secured to work with TUI in Lanzarote over the summer, but unfortunately that has now fallen through. I am currently working in hospitality locally.”

Ken Webb, college principal and chief executive, said the awards were recognition of some excellent work from students.

“The awards are closely aligned to the values of SERC,” he said. “They are presented to students nominated by their course tutors from across a range of courses, training programmes, and apprenticeships from construction to animal management, IT to performing arts, professional baking to security and alarm systems.

“They recognise students who have overcome educational barriers, and demonstrated an impressive commitment to learning. It also rewards pupils who have shown excellence in entrepreneurship or project work.”

Mr Webb added: “I would like to congratulate the students who have received Excellence Awards. The talents of our students never cease to amaze me, and it is important that we recognise all that they have achieved and encourage them in all that is possible for themselves in the future.”