Three of our students named national award finalists

Barnsley College is celebrating after three of its students were named national finalists in the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards.

Katie Cherry has been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year, Eduard Cristea for Young Student of the Year and Ben Burke for the Student Green Commitment Award. Each is one of 14 finalists from colleges across England.

Level 3 Content Creator Apprentice Katie has transformed digital engagement at her employer, Age UK Barnsley, using creative storytelling to increase the charity’s reach and highlight issues affecting older people.

As Activities and Welfare Officer on the College’s Students’ Union Executive Committee, Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services student Eduard has turned his experience of surviving childhood leukaemia into a commitment to helping others.

Software Development T Level student Ben has made digital sustainability, artificial intelligence and electronic waste more accessible to fellow students through his role as Students’ Union Sustainability Officer.

David Akeroyd, Principal and Chief Executive of Barnsley College, said: “To have three students recognised across three different national categories is a tremendous achievement.

“What unites Katie, Eduard and Ben is that their achievements are rooted in a genuine commitment to others. Each has looked beyond their own success and used their skills, experience and ideas to support people, strengthen communities and encourage positive change.

“Whether through compassionate community storytelling, fundraising and student leadership, or championing digital sustainability, they show that achievement is not only about personal progress, but also transforming the lives of those around you.

“We are incredibly proud of them and wish all three the very best of luck.”

All 14 finalists in the prestigious awards will be celebrated during the AoC Awards Dinner at the ICC in Birmingham on Tuesday 10 November.