Somerset College

Somerset College's Star Student who has progressed through the ranks from a Skills for Life course to a degree at the College was recognised at an awards ceremony last night.

The top award went to Access student Tanya Carter for her determination to succeed, the support she gives to others and the barriers she has had to overcome.

Tanya studies in the College's Open Learning Workshops. She arrived at Somerset College with little confidence, but through her determination has improved her self esteem and confidence gaining recognised qualifications on the way. In September she will start a BA (Hons) in Applied Psychology at Somerset College.

Tanya said: ‘Without the support from staff and tutors at the College I would have found it difficult to complete my course. I thoroughly enjoyed my Access course and found it enlightening.

‘I turned down offers from Bath and Bristol universities as I had received such good support from the tutors at Somerset College that I wanted to continue here. Through studying at Somerset College it also allows me to spend quality time with my family.'

Tanya's tutor, Jan King, said: ‘She is to be congratulated on her motivation and determination. She works extremely hard within the team and on her own. Tanya also offers peer mentoring offering help and support to other students. She even combines her studies with looking after her children and supporting her husband. Through her determination, she has improved herself, her confidence and her self esteem.'

More than 80 students were recognised by Somerset College during their further education awards evening. Awards were given for students' attendance, achievements, best young apprentice, contribution to college life and student and team of the year.

Somerset College Principal, Rachel Davies, said: ‘Our further education students have achieved a tremendous amount, we have recognised them in their own dedicated awards ceremony to celebrate their successes.

‘We have high ambition and standards for every young person when they start a skills programme - they are on the first steps to achieving their degree and the first steps to a full and prosperous employment. Tanya is a shining example of this, she has stayed with the college to gain the skills she needs to get a place on a degree course, and she is now taking the degree course here in Taunton.'

Somerset College offers 65 further education courses in Construction, Arts and Design, Technology, Social and Professional Studies, Student Entitlement and Service Industries.

An open evening is being held on Tuesday 24 June at Somerset College to showcase further education and part time courses available. Visit www.somerset.ac.uk for more details.

For more information on the courses offered contact (01823) 366 331, alternatively email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk.

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Picture caption:

Tanya Carter receives Best Student award at Somerset College Awards Ceremony