A Staffordshire college group has celebrated achievement across academic, vocational and apprenticeship programmes, as well as contributions from local employers, at its annual awards evening.
Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) held the ceremony this week at Stoke-on-Trent’s bet365 Stadium, where more than 30 awards were presented to students from NSCG Newcastle College.
Three local businesses – Drayton Beaumont, Belong and DPC Accountants – were also recognised for their support for students and staff. Employer representatives joined students, their families, college staff and governors at the event, alongside guests including Stoke City’s Terry Conroy and Keele University Vice Chancellor Professor Trevor McMillan OBE.
DPC Director Michelle Coates, who collected the Employer of the Year award on behalf of the firm, said: “It was such a privilege to accept this award on behalf of the team at DPC Accountants who work tirelessly to ensure we offer our apprentices the highest quality training programme. It is fantastic to see their hard work and dedication recognised by Newcastle College.
“We greatly enjoy the working relationship with Newcastle College and it goes from strength to strength. It’s really inspiring to see young people thriving and developing in the field of accountancy and I am honoured that we get to play such an important part in that in our local community.”
Among the students recognised was Will Beardmore, who won the Business, Travel & Accounting award. He is studying T Level business management and administration and has secured a graduate apprenticeship with Rolls Royce following a placement at University Hospital of North Midlands.
The evening also saw Ruby Millington receive the Sporting Excellence award for achievements across football, cricket and international competition, and Halyna Holovatiuk collect the Creative Arts award after joining the college having fled the war in Ukraine in 2022.
Craig Hodgson, Principal and Chief Executive at NSCG Newcastle College, said: “The Celebration Awards are a highlight in the NSCG calendar and it’s truly special to come together to recognise the achievements of our students, apprentices and employer partners.
“I’d like to congratulate every award winner – they should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
