Students Recognised at The Bedford College Group’s 2025 Further Education Awards for Northamptonshire

The Bedford College Group celebrated the success, resilience, and ambition of its students at the Group’s Further Education Awards, held on Wednesday, 7 May.

The awards honoured students from Tresham College, The Corby Sixth Form, and the National College for Motorsport.

The Northamptonshire awards, sponsored by North Northamptonshire Council, recognised students who not only excelled academically but also demonstrated exceptional personal growth, creativity, and determination. These individuals stood out not only for their achievements in the classroom but also for their ability to overcome obstacles and make a positive impact in their learning communities.

Robin Webber-Jones, Executive Director for Curriculum at The Bedford College Group, reflected on the meaning behind the celebration:

“As we approach the end of another academic year, we want to thank all of our students who have given their best, in whatever way that might look for them. While these awards recognise a selection of outstanding achievements, they also symbolise the progress of every student, whether academic, personal, or emotional. Many have overcome significant challenges; others have built on existing strengths to reach new heights. What makes a truly outstanding college is its ability to celebrate this diversity of experience, to understand that every student is unique, with different journeys, aspirations, and ways of growing. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to education, and that’s something we are incredibly proud to champion across all of our colleges making up The Bedford College Group.”

Shaquille Chidoori, a student at Tresham College Wellingborough, was honoured with both the overall Student of the Year and the Computing/IT Student of the Year. Reflecting on his success, he said,

“I’m incredibly excited and proud to have won these awards. The support and quality of teaching at Tresham College Wellingborough have been outstanding. I would strongly encourage parents to consider this college for their children, and for current students, my advice is to work hard and keep going. When I first joined, it was a completely new experience for me. I even changed my career path, and I haven’t looked back since.”

Carole Warnes, a student at the Learning Centre Kettering and recipient of the College Ambassador of the Year award, shared her excitement,

“I’m overjoyed to have received this award; it means so much to me. I couldn’t have achieved it without the incredible support from everyone at the Learning Centre in Kettering. The staff go above and beyond to create a safe, welcoming environment where learning is genuinely enjoyable. They’re dedicated to helping every student succeed in their chosen path.”

Jessica Riddle, a student at The Corby Sixth Form, won the Citizenship Award and shared her thoughts on the achievement,

“It’s amazing to win this award, I feel very proud. Being part of The Corby Sixth Form has really benefited me and helped me grow in confidence. The teachers have been fantastic, really hands-on and approachable. You can talk to them whenever you need to, and they’re always there with help and support.”

Preparing students for life

More than just a formal ceremony, the FE Student Awards acted as a true celebration of the spirit, energy, and diversity that characterise life across the Group’s Northamptonshire campuses. Applause, pride, and even a few tears filled the room as students took to the stage, surrounded by peers, tutors, and family members who supported their journeys.

As the evening drew to a close, the message was clear: The Bedford College Group is not just preparing students for exams, it is preparing them for life, with confidence, character, and the courage to succeed.