OUTSTANDING students at South Essex College were celebrated as bosses held their first awards ceremony in three years. 

The annual event was staged in person for the first time since the pandemic at the Park Inn, in Southend, and saw pupils recognised for going above and beyond.

South Essex College, which has sites in Southend, Basildon and Grays, held the awards to recognise students’ achievements, as well as those who have overcome barriers and provided a positive contribution to both the college and the community.

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One of the winners on the night was Aimee Glaze, an 18-year-old from Basildon.

She won the Public Services Student of the Year for “excelling” in her studies despite battling ill health.

Teachers nominated Aimee as “an outstanding student who uses her mature reflective skills to complete all assignments before deadlines to an outstanding level”.

Aimee, who is pursuing her dream of becoming a prison officer, was over the moon about receiving this award.

She said: “This year I have faced a lot of personal challenges, but I put endless amounts of effort into my college life and my assignments.

“The support at the college has been second to none and the staff here always go above and beyond, especially the wellbeing team.

“They have helped me so much throughout my time here, they helped me gain my confidence and walked me through my hard days when my illness was getting too much to handle. 

“I am incredibly proud.”

Another winner on the night was Angel Hara, 19, from Westcliff.

She won English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Student of the Year, for displaying commitment that was above and beyond expectations.

Angel said: “Teachers at the college are very friendly and helpful.

“I did not expect to win the award but I am happy and excited.”

Denise Brown, college principal, congratulated all the winners following the ceremony.

She said: “It was the first time in a few years we have been able to hold our annual award evening in person because of the pandemic, so it was a special night.

“We are all extremely proud of our students’ achievements this year, and wish them all the best for the future.”