BRADFORD College celebrated commitment and achievement at its annual Student Awards. Students from every curriculum area received certificates and trophies recognising achievements during the academic year.
Inspirational stories were shared at six ceremonies at the David Hockney Building. Alina Khan, Vice Principal for Student Experience, opened proceedings, with students receiving awards from Bradford College CEO Chris Webb, who said: “Every year I'm astounded by the talent and commitment of our students, tackling tough challenges yet proving to be accomplished individuals. All our winners have shown resilience in spades. I know they will continue to make us proud as they go on to make a real difference to communities and workforces where they are employed and live”.
Festival-themed celebrations followed for winners, families, tutors and employer partners.
* Health, Social Care & Early Years: Winners included Iqra Mahmood, Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care student for commitment to studies and dedication to service users. Iqra, who wants to be a nurse, completed a recent work placement at the BRI's ENT outpatient department. She said: “The staff made me feel part of the team. I would 100per cent recommend a placement at BRI.” Over 39 awards were given to Progression to Learning and Work students and those embarking on 14-16 courses.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Iqra Mahmood, right, with her award Iqra Mahmood, right, with her award (Image: Bradford College)
* Health Sciences, MediTech and Computing: Thirty four students received Academic Excellence and Greatest Progress Awards. Abu-Bakr Farakh, studying a BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science Year 1, won Academic Excellence award for his focus, and completing complex physics calculations whilst supporting students.
* Construction and Engineering: Eleven students scooped Student of the Year awards. Zubayr Khan, Level 3 Construction Management, won Future Leader Award for his commitment to learning. He has had two offers of employment in the construction industry. Leon Donoghue took the Most Committed Student Award for attendance on the BTEC Level 3 in the Built Environment. Leon completed a work placement with course sponsors Willmott Dixon at the West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue HQ and is due to complete a further placement with Sewell.
* Bradford School of Art: Over 12 awards were issued across Art and Design, Music, Creative Media Production, Performing Arts, and Media Make-Up. Music Student of the Year went to Leoni Conway, an independent learner, talented pianist, and music producer. She has developed as a performer, musician and event manager and single-handedly organised a music showcase. 

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Bradford College CEO Chris Webb with Music Student of the Year Leoni ConwayBradford College CEO Chris Webb with Music Student of the Year Leoni Conway (Image: Bradford College)
* Professional Services & Leisure: Students received 15 Shining Star awards. Gary Bradwell, Curriculum Area Manager, handed Learner of the Year Award to Roxanne Istrate, a Level 2 Travel and Tourism student nominated for her resilience and desire to “really push herself to achieve distinction grades.”  Furkan Uddin, Head of Department for Professional Services and Leisure, said: “I'm so proud of the efforts our staff make to transform the lives of our students. Hearing these amazing journeys is a reminder of why we do what we do.”  
* Adult and Community: Sixteen awards went to students on community courses. The College of Sanctuary award went to Cynthia Utlwang, a Botswanan refugee who was separated from her son when she fled the country. Cynthia lives in a women’s hostel in Bradford and, with mental health support, has completed an ESOL Level 1 qualification, Maths GCSE, and an introductory Nail Technician course as her first steps to a new career. 

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Cynthia Utlwang, centre, with her award Cynthia Utlwang, centre, with her award (Image: Bradford College)
* Apprenticeship Awards: Fifteen awards included Customer Service Apprentice of the Year to Alisha Fearn and Management Apprentice of the Year to Emma Brown. Stable Court Dental won Employer of the Year after working with Bradford College for many years and supporting apprenticeships. Manager Nicola Burgess negotiates time for learners to attend lessons and take time to catch up. 

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Nicola Burgess, second right, manager of Stable Court Dental - Employer of the Year Nicola Burgess, second right, manager of Stable Court Dental - Employer of the Year (Image: Bradford College)