Published: January 31, 2010
Local students dazzle at Weston College's awards night

Three local students from the Burnham-On-Sea area were recognised for their academic achievements at a glittering awards ceremony in Weston this week that was watched by BRIT Award nominee Beth Rowley.

Edward Bridge, Katrina Burse and Rosalind Wright all received awards at Weston College’s annual 'Celebration of Success' evening, held at the Winter Gardens in Weston-super-Mare.

They were presented with their awards by famous former Weston College student Beth Rowley, who studied at the College from 2001-2002.

Katrina, aged 18, (pictured above) won the 'Care and Early Years Student of the Year' award after studying the BTEC National Diploma in Health and Social Care course.

Her tutor said: "Katrina overcame a number of personal challenges to successfully achieve a distinction profile on her course, impressing staff with her dedication and determination to achieve."

Katrina, of Berrow, is currently completing an Advanced Apprenticeship in Early Years to broaden her experience prior to progressing to university to study a degree in Social Work.

Rosalind, 19, of East Brent, (pictured right) received the 'Public Services Student of the Year' award after achieving a distinction in the BTEC National Diploma in Public Services. She excelled on her course and was also part of the team who won a prestigious UK Skills National Competition.

In addition to her academic success Rosalind was also recognised in the 'Pride of Somerset' awards for her fundraising work for the 'Help the Heroes' charity and her work as a volunteer carer for the 'Over the Wall' charity. She is now studying Nursing at John Moores University in Liverpool.

Highbridge student Edward, 40, was awarded the 'Electrical Student of the Year' commendation for his work on the City & Guilds 2330 Electro Technical Technology course, having completed both Level 2 and Level 3.

His tutor said: "Edward was unemployed when he enrolled at the College in 2006 and found the return to education quite difficult. However with perseverance and a determination to progress in his life he went on to successfully gain his Level 2 qualification. He then progressed to the Level 3 course in which he excelled; gaining distinctions and achieving the top mark of any student in his Level 3 written exam."

Edward progressed even further to gain the 17th Edition and the City & Guilds 2382 Testing and Inspection Certificate and he is now in full-time employment.

Approximately 300 guests attended the awards ceremony, including prize-winners and their families, college staff and governors, sponsors and local dignitaries.

Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Paul Phillips, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "We are proud of the achievements of each and every one of our students and also recognise outstanding effort and achievement. These awards were presented to students who have gone the extra mile in their studies, those who have motivated others, overcome the odds and contributed the most."

Originally from Bristol, Beth Rowley, is known for her unique vocal sound and love of the Blues, spent all last year working on her much-anticipated second album, following the success of her 2008 Top 10 album 'Little Dreamer'.

She was nominated for Best Female - Solo Artist at the 2009 Brit Awards, where she faced fierce competition from Adele, MIA and Estelle and was beaten to the post by Welsh pop singer Duffy.

Pictured are, top, Rosalind Wright (centre) receiving her award from Beth Rowley (right) and Weston College Chair of Governors Jude Ferguson (left) while, beneath, Rosalind Wright (centre) is shown with Beth Rowley (right) and Jude Ferguson