The outstanding achievement, success and triumph of Blackpool and The Fylde College students was celebrated at the biggest Student of the Year awards yet – held for the first time this year at Pleasure Beach’s Paradise Room.

The glittering ceremony saw nominated students invited along with the tutors and heads of schools who have helped shape their journey over the last year.

Students from the School of Art, Media and Performance brought the ceremony to life with a stunning Evita showcase and the College choir entertained the audience with their toe-tapping set.

Principal Pauline Waterhouse said:

“Blackpool and The Fylde College students never cease to amaze and inspire us with their enthusiasm, determination and sheer zest for life.

“Sometimes students are here against all the odds and face the most challenging of circumstances, some juggle family and work life around study and others just want to work hard, learn and stop at nothing to achieve their dreams. The awards celebrate all of these things and more and the winners were all thoroughly deserving.”

Amongst those picking up a trophy was Business student Drew Blower, 25. Drew has been blind from birth but proudly assumed the role of Student Representative and his overwhelmingly positive approach has been an excellent motivator for others while his 100% attendance and distinctions for all assessed work demonstrate outstanding personal progress.

Talented Performing Arts student Shabaneh Razvand, 18, earned distinctions in every subject and latterly a place at the ALRA drama school in London. Her tutors are firmly of the opinion that with continued strength and determination, her dream of becoming a performer will one day be realised.

School Links 14-16 year old learners and bridging students were also recognised at their own ceremony at the Hilton Hotel. The awards reflect their individual efforts and also the support and encouragement from family, high school and other educational staff.

Complete list of award winners:

• Young Student – Vocational or Academic Excellence: Shabeneh Razvand, School of Art, Media and Performance
• Young Student – Achievement in the face of Challenging Circumstances: Stacey Wilkie, School of Hairdressing, Beauty and Related Therapies
• HE Student – Vocational or Academic Excellence: Lara Clayton, School of Academic Studies
• HE Student – Achievement in the face of Challenging Circumstances: Richard Brennan, School of Engineering and Computing
• Adult Student – Vocational or Academic Excellence: James Parfitt, School of Construction
• Adult Student - Achievement in the face of Challenging Circumstances - Drew Blower, School of Academic Studies
• Overseas Student of the Year: Michael Ormoruryi, School of Engineering and Computing