Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College honours outstanding students at first joint prizegiving

Principal and CEO Kate Wills and Chair of Governors Chris Evans, pictured with award-winning students

Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College recently celebrated the achievements of 34 exceptional students, at a special prizegiving ceremony — the first of its kind to bring together learners from both campuses following the recent merger of the two colleges.

Held in glorious sunshine at the Kingston Maurward campus, the event recognised students who have gone above and beyond in their academic studies, personal development and wider contributions to college life. Guests, including proud families, staff and governors, enjoyed an afternoon of celebration, with drinks on the terrace, an afternoon tea and live music by the Dorset String Quartet.

Principal Kate Wills welcomed attendees and personally congratulated each winner, alongside members of the College’s senior leadership team and Chair of Governors, Chris Evans, who addressed students with words of praise and encouragement.

Student, staff and guests were welcomed with drinks on the terrace in glorious sunshine

This year’s prizegiving came just as the College received news of an overall rating of ‘Good’ from Ofsted, following its first inspection as a merged organisation. The report also recognised the College’s strong contribution to meeting local and regional skills needs, highlighting the positive impact it is having on the wider Dorset community.

Principal’s Awards were presented by Kate Wills to two students who demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership and character throughout their time at the College.

Kingston Maurward Agriculture student Daniel Crabb, who was recognised for his growth as a responsible, competent, hardworking and highly valued member of the farm team and at his work place. Staff said he was an absolute pleasure to work with and he had become a skilled, knowledgeable and fantastic student and employee.

Weymouth A-Level student Elliot Brown has played a key part in College life through his contribution to student voice and leadership in his role as a Student Representative. He was praised for demonstrating outstanding maturity, resilience and reliability throughout the year, as a good communicator and a positive, proactive member of the student community.

An afternoon tea was served following the prizegiving ceremony

Principal Kate Wills commented: “This year’s Prizegiving was particularly special as it marked our first joint event celebrating the success of students from both Weymouth and Kingston Maurward campuses.

“Every award winner has demonstrated dedication, resilience and personal growth, and we are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved.

“It’s especially meaningful to come together in celebration so soon after receiving such a positive Ofsted report, which recognises the strength of our provision and our role in developing local skills.”

Dorset String Quartet provided live musical entertainment

The full list of award winners was as follows:

• Animal Welfare & Science Student of the Year – Deanna Pearson
• Adult Student of the Year – Keri Smith
• Agriculture Student of the Year – Finlay O’Donnell
• A Level & Applied Science Student of the Year – Holly Farn
• Arboriculture Student of the Year – James Denham
• Automotive Student of the Year – Alfie Norris
• Business Student of the Year (Weymouth) – Imogen Trigg
• Business Student of the Year (Kingston Maurward) – Keira Hayward
• Catering & Hospitality Student of the Year – Sam Rees
• Computing & IT Student of the Year – Finnlay Mowlam
• Construction & Building Services Student of the Year (Weymouth) – Dec Smith
• Construction Student of the Year (Kingston Maurward) – Frankie Westwood Norfor
• Creative Media Student of the Year – Sasha Kiely
• Creative & Visual Arts Student of the Year (Kingston Maurward) – Sakeasi Kaikadavu
• Early Years Student of the Year – Ellie Title
• Engineering Student of the Year – Daniel Cannon
• Equine Studies Student of the Year – Jessica Lee
• Floral Design Student of the Year – Ruby Laws
• Foundation Learning Student of the Year (Weymouth) – Grace Walker
• Foundation Learning Student of the Year (Kingston Maurward) – Archie Riggs
• Hair & Beauty Student of the Year – Rosie Boswell
• Health & Social Care Student of the Year – Megan Smith
• Horticulture Student of the Year – Rosanne Boreham
• Military Preparation Student of the Year – Krystal Pike
• Outdoor Adventure Student of the Year – Roussi Bridgewater
• Performing Arts, Music & Music Technology Student of the Year – Lucy Connolly
• Public Services Student of the Year (Weymouth) – Maya Ridler Dutton
• Sport Student of the Year – Lola Mitchell
• Travel & Tourism Student of the Year – Georgia Fox
• Uniformed Public Services Student of the Year (Kingston Maurward) – Jacob Maine
• Welding, Fabrication & Blacksmithing Student of the Year – Zak Ormes
• Wildlife, Ecology & Conservation Student of the Year – Mia Burroughs

Principal’s Awards:

• Kingston Maurward – Daniel Crabb
• Weymouth – Elliot Brown

The College extends warm congratulations to all award winners and thanks every student, staff member and family who helped make this milestone event a success. With students now enjoying a summer break, the focus turns to new opportunities the newly-merged College will offer from September onwards with some exciting announcements expected soon.