An evening of celebration for exceptional students

Our students were recognised for their exceptional achievements at the annual Excellence Awards, held at The Metrodome in a night filled with celebration, inspiration and community spirit.

The awards ceremony saw 19 awards presented, including Barnsley College Student of the Year, Sixth Form Student of the Year, HE Student of the Year, ITS Student of the Year, Northern College Student of the Year, 14-16 Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Equality and Diversity award, Overcoming Adversity Award, Progression Award, Societies Award, Student Voice Representative Award, Townend Tribute Award, Future Leader Award, Sustainability Award, Lifelong Learning Award, Brian Glover Memorial Award, the Frank Johnston Award and the Principal’s Award.

Special guest speakers included Marie Lang, the Chair of the Board of Governors at Barnsley College, and Chris Sanders, a decorated army veteran, business owner and proud Barnsley College alumni, delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on resilience and the value of education. The event was also attended by distinguished guests, including Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, the High Sherriff of South Yorkshire, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Barnsley.

On the night the Principal’s Award was presented to one student selected from those who won an award during the evening and this year’s award winner was Aimee Hewitt. Aimee, who is a Level 3 Uniformed Services student, was also the winner of the Overcoming Adversity award and impressed judges with her commitment and resilience. In 2025, she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and began months of intensive treatment. Even during that time, her commitment to her course never disappeared. She continued working remotely, completing assignments and progressing through her course, which she’s now on track to complete.

In her nomination, Public Services tutor Ebony Sheard said: “Since returning to College following remission, Aimee has shown exceptional determination and maturity, working tirelessly to catch up on outstanding modules. Her resilience, strength of character and unwavering positivity throughout one of the most difficult challenges a young person can face have been truly inspiring. Aimee is a remarkable student who embodies perseverance, kindness and dedication, making her a thoroughly deserving recipient of this Adversity Award.”

Guests enjoyed a selection of refreshments and stunning venue decorations, all contributing to a truly memorable occasion celebrating student success.

Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive David Akeroyd added: “Every year, the Excellence Awards give us the opportunity to recognise the exceptional achievements of our students and celebrate the determination, talent and commitment they demonstrate throughout their learning journeys. This year's winners represent the very best of College, and their stories are a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, resilience and ambition.

“I would like to congratulate all our award winners and nominees, thank our staff for their continued support and dedication, and extend my appreciation to our guests and sponsors for helping to make the evening such a memorable celebration. We are incredibly proud of everything our students have accomplished and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make in their communities, workplaces and beyond.”

We look forward to continuing to celebrate the success of our students in the years to come.