On Thursday 18 September, Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) celebrated the exceptional achievements and successes of twenty-four of its students at the annual Student Awards ceremony, held at the college campus in Twickenham.
Over 100 guests attended the event, hosted by RuTC Principal, Gavin Hughes, including the Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Councillor Penny Frost and the Leader of Richmond Council, Councillor Gareth Roberts, as well as students, parents, staff and members of the local community.
We were delighted to welcome special guest speaker, Fran Scott, Neuroscientist, Presenter and Pyrotechnician, who entertained and inspired the audience as she spoke about her career journey and the benefits of not putting yourself in a box, where staying curious allows for professional growth and exploration.
The award ceremony began with RuTC Level 3 Acting student, O’shai Linton, performing the poem, ‘If’ by Rudyard Kipling. Level 3 Dance students then showcased their talents with a lively routine to ‘Jump’ by The Pointer Sisters. Music award winner, Luka Brajovic, also provided entertainment during the awards ceremony with his own song, ‘Out of All These People’, performed on guitar and vocals. 
Award winners included A-Level student, Charlotte Jones, who received Distinction in her recent examinations and is now going on to study Criminology and Psychology at university. The Science award was won by Noah Davel, who studied BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Biomedical Science and impressively completed work experience at The Cell Science Centre at Queen Mary's University during his time at RuTC. Foundation Learning student, Daim Javed, won the award for his department, being praised for committing to a great level and maturity in his learning.
The Apprenticeship award was won by Ario Zonouzi, who is in the process of completing his Level 3 IT Solutions Technician apprenticeship at IT company, Shadowserve, and will be continuing on at the company in full time employment. RuTC Principal, Gavin Hughes, selected Early Years & Childcare student, Sian Elliott, as the ‘Student of the Year’, praising her kindness, work ethic and involvement in college enrichment activities.
Sian commented:
“I’m truly honoured to have received the Student of the Year Award. It was a memorable and joyful evening, and I am grateful for this recognition. I would like to extend my thanks to all the teachers and staff for their guidance and encouragement throughout my time at college. This achievement would not have been possible without their belief in me.”
Gavin reflected on the evening:
“Last night was a special night where we came together as a community to celebrate another tremendous and exciting year at Richmond Upon Thames College. We not only celebrated the academic excellence of our students but also honoured their dedication, perseverance and remarkable achievements throughout the year. It is my pleasure to continue to support our students to pursue their endeavours through and beyond their time at College.”
Learn more about studying at RuTC and the courses on offer here.