The achievements and successes of all completing students have been celebrated at Duchy College Stoke Climsland at the 30th annual Prize Giving Ceremony.

The ceremony was opened by Sharon Dudden, Chair of Duchy College Council of Governors, followed by Andrew Counsell, Principal of Duchy College, who gave a report on the activities of the College over the last 12 months.

Guest of honour for the occasion was George Eustice MP, Minister of State at DEFRA, who presented the certificates, prizes and special awards. Mr Eustice talked about the importance of education in the land based sector and went on to say that the students should face the future with confidence now that the nation has decided to leave the EU and re-establish democratic self government in the UK.

The Duke of Cornwall Award for being the best all round student was won this year by Holly Blake, 18, from Boscastle. Holly studies the Animal Management Level 3 Extended Diploma and was described by Duchy College Senior Learning Advisor Mike Carnall as a brilliant asset to the department and the college and is held in high esteem by both staff and her peers. When Holly started her journey she had very little confidence in herself or her abilities but lurking underneath was a passion and determination to pursue her dream of working in the animal industry. Little did we know then that also lurking was a mature, confident, highly academically capable and practically able young lady! Holly has truly blossomed and excelled herself in many aspects of the college, not just her study programme. She has represented the college on many occasions at various events.”

Holly said “I was so surprised to have won this award, I couldn’t believe it! I would highly recommend Duchy College, the staff have been awesome, they give 100% and go above and beyond what is expected. The help and support I have received at college has encouraged me to continue with my studies and I am going to Cornwall College Newquay next year to study BSc (Hons) Applied Zoology and Conservation”

The award for Best Overall Full Time student in the Agricultural Department was won by Amelia Roulstone, 18, from Barnstaple. “I’m honoured to have won this award, I was really surprised. College has been a great experience I’ve really enjoyed the practical elements on my course and I’ve made loads of new friends. Next year I’m hoping to do a Level 4 Apprenticeship or go to University.

Following the presentations, students and their guests were invited to enjoy an array of cakes, organised by the catering team, and chat to staff about the student successes from the year as well as many final year students bidding a fond farewell to classmates and staff.

Andrew Counsell, Principal of Duchy College said: “The past few weeks have been enormously rewarding, with the Duchy College Open Day and Summer Food Festival attracting nearly 5000 visitors, over 600 students attending the end of year Summer Ball and a celebration of the immense success of the students in this year’s Prize Giving ceremony. Prize Day is a fantastic celebration of the students’ hard work, and a way for parents, carers and friends to join in the success of the students. We wish them every success in their future careers and are delighted to have helped them on their way.”

For more information on the range of courses available across The Cornwall College Group visit www.duchy.ac.uk or call 0845 60 50 455.