The Lincoln College Group Further Education Awards shined a spotlight on the remarkable journeys of students from Lincoln and Newark College, along with the Air and Space Institute. The annual ceremony is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of personal challenges.
Students, staff, families, and friends gathered at Lincoln College finishing school, The Drill, to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of those who not only conquered academic challenges but triumphed over personal hurdles.
Whilst the ceremony celebrated our previous cohort, it was also a showcase of our current talented and skillful students. The Drill came alive with the performances of Dance students, gaining them invaluable experience in front of a large audience. Catering and Hospitality students contributed to the event service leaving a lasting impression on high quality service and a delicious three-course meal.
Mark Locking, Principal & CEO of Lincoln and Newark College, said: “In celebrating the success of our student winners, I extend a heartfelt congratulations to each of them.
“The truly humbling stories shared at the Further Education Awards underscore the determination and resilience of our students – many have overcome adversity to succeed in their careers.
“A special thank you goes to our staff for going the extra mile to make that happen as well as our generous sponsors; your support is the foundation that makes evenings like this not only possible but extraordinary.”
Councillor Matthew Spoors, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development at Newark and Sherwood District Council l, said: “We’re proud to be one of the sponsors for the Annual Lincoln College Awards and even more delighted to be the sole sponsor for the ASI Civil Award.
“It’s always pleasing to see students at the ASI achieve impressive things and knowing they have done so in our district is an amazing feeling. There are not many places across the UK where students can get hands-on experience spending part of their learning on a real-life full-size Airbus, and I’m delighted that local people have the opportunity to train here.”
Among the award winners was Deimantas Kalvelis, who received the Richard Arbon Award for Overcoming Adversity. Orignially from Lithuania, Deimantas relocated to Lincoln, despite settling in a new city on his own, he has achieved an outstanding Distinction grade in his first year at Lincoln College. Deimantas has managed this with limited personal funds and support from Lincoln College Student Services. Deimantas' final Lincoln College project focuses on Youth Homelessness, and he has been nominated to collaborate on the Think Sharp campaign with Lincolnshire Police and the University of Lincoln. Since then, he has been offered an unconditional place at the University of Lincoln to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design, starting in September.
The Engineering & Technology Award was awarded to Courtney Cash for showing tremendous growth in confidence over the past year. Despite initial anxieties about entering a predominantly male-led profession, Courtney's journey serves as an inspiration for overcoming mental blocks and barriers, proving that one can achieve anything with determination and positivity.
The Construction Apprentice Award found a deserving recipient in Harry Overton. Despite facing personal adversity with a seriously ill family member, Harry demonstrated exceptional commitment, outstanding attendance, and a passion for his trade that exceeded expectations. His polite and friendly attitude, coupled with a willingness to learn and overcome challenges, set him apart as a role model for peers and tutors alike.
Lucy Bell, winner of the Service Sector Award, had an incredible journey at Lincoln College, from craftng tantalising dishes on her Erasmus trip in Denmark, to gaining invaluable experience at The Pipe and Glass alongside Michelin Star chef James Mackenzie. Today, she thrives as a private chef on a luxury yacht, showcasing the global impact of Lincoln College graduates.
Full list of winners
A Level Student Award: Molly Richens & Jessica Dowell
Animal Care: Gabby Zebrauskaite
Performing Arts & Creative Arts Award: Matthew Taylor
Business & Education Apprentice Award and Apprentice of the Year – Kimberley Pickett
ASI Military & Defence Award: Elizabeth Bedells
ASI Civil Award: Cody Harrison
Policing College Award and Student of the Year 16-18: Willow Van Landegham
Care College Award: Leah Camille
Care Services Award: Kiera Pepper
Construction Award: Matthew McCullagh
Construction Apprentice Award: Harry Overton
Engineering & Technology Award: Courtney Cash
Hair & Beauty Award: Ping Wong
Hair & Beauty Apprentice: Isabella Stenner
Community & International Students studying in the UK Award: Anastasiia Makogon
Philip Dawson Supported Education Award and Student of the Year 19+: Ethan Wright
Tourism & Hospitality Award: Megan Garrick
Service Sector Award: Lucy Bell
Sport, Public Services & Animal Care Extraordinary Commitment: Ciara Haines
Maths & English Award: Tallulah Dolan
Richard Arbon Award for Overcoming Adversity - Deimantas Kalvelis
Kev Gibbon Most Improved Student of the Year Award: Ethan Nicholson
Entrepreneurial Achievement Award: Tom Shaw
Full list of sponsors:
The Lincolnite
Streets Chartered Accountants
Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce
The Orders of St John Care Trust
Core Architects
GF Tomlinson
Home From Home Care
Pilgrim
Iuedale
Currys
Aura Hair and Beauty Academy
The Drill
Royal Air Force
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
English Speaking Union
Root Studio
University of Lincoln
Lincolnshire Police
Lee Stafford Education
Newark & Sherwood District Council
Siemans Energy
Rand Farm
The annual Further Education Awards recognise academic achievements and celebrate the personal triumphs that shape individuals into resilient, motivated, and inspiring talent. Each success story is a testament to the college's commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and preparing students for extraordinary journeys beyond the classroom.
Find and embrace your future at Lincoln College, find out more about our courses here. Come along to our next Open Day – register here.
