Exeter College BTEC Students Win Big in National Awards

A total of nine Exeter College students were recognised at an awards ceremony that took place in Westminster in July. The event celebrates exceptional BTEC students and apprentices while also shining a light on the inspirational teachers who have influenced their learning.

Exeter College’s Luke Bearpark was crowned Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Student of the Year with Abbie Densham being awarded Science Student of the Year.

In addition, Bronze Awards were given to the Exeter College’s Kaisha Roberton, Dayna Edworthy, Ildiko Albert, Emily Strawbridge, William King, Daniel Reynolds and Daniel Huztable.

Luke Bearpark, who has now secured employment as International Cabin Crew with British Airways, was delighted to be named the BTEC Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Student of the Year 2019.

“It’s an amazing feeling to have been given this award,” said Luke.

“It was so surreal to be called up on stage at this great event and be recognised with a national award. The lecturers have had a massive impact on my studies, because they’re all specialists in their fields and they’ve definitely helped me during my time at college.

“It has always been my dream to work in Cabin Crew and I don’t think I would have got my job at British Airways if it wasn’t for Exeter College. I’m going to be doing the job I’ve wanted to do for years, it’s really exciting.”

Joanna Watkins is a lecturer on the Travel and Tourism course at the college and has worked with Luke throughout his studies. She said, “Luke is a shining example of vocational excellence.

“We’re so proud of Luke for receiving this award and we’re delighted he has followed up this achievement by securing his dream job with British Airways.”

Abbie Densham’s award as BTEC Science Student of the Year comes following a tricky academic journey in which she had reconstructive surgery on her hip and also suffered with meningitis.

“It was an amazing experience being given this award,” said Abbie.

“The event in London was huge so to go on stage and have them talk about my journey was quite special.

“I was really well supported by my tutor and lecturers at Exeter College; they helped me achieve during the BTEC and also looked out for me when I was searching for the next step in my journey to become a vet.”

Maths and Science Lecturer James Hallmark paid tribute to the work ethic of Abbie, who is now on Bristol University’s Gateway Veterinary Programme.

James said, “Abbie has shone since she joined the course and has completed a work experience profile with around 300 hours of veterinary and allied placements.

“She’s a remarkable student and this award should prove to her how exceptional her work has been.”

The awards were organised by education company Pearson and their President in the UK, Rod Bristow, said: “All those that won this year deserve huge congratulations and stand every chance to continuing that success into the careers they are now ready to start.”

“This year’s awards are a fantastic celebration of them, alongside the schools, colleges, universities, training providers, and employers who have underpinned their efforts.”