Star students honoured with awards

Michael Merron - 19 years old - Royton, Oldham - Studies Level 2 Diploma in Plastering - Emerson Trust Award

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TWO proud Oldham students have been given Hopwood Hall College's highest awards honours.

Plastering student Michael Merron (19) received the Emerson Trust Award at the college's grand FE Awards Ceremony at Middleton Arena, an accolade given to students who have overcome adversity and triumphed.

According to his tutor, Rob Wilson, Michael, who studies Level 2 Diploma in Plastering, has grown in confidence and beaten his challenges, including dyslexia, to be an outstanding student.

"He was only 17 when he first started living on his own and was supported through those early stages," said Rob.

"His confidence was reduced but he showed he was determined to succeed when he came for his interview for the plastering course, which was a big factor in him securing a place on the first year plastering programme.

"His development of his practical skills has helped him progress steadily, achieving some excellent practical results and grades for his assessment work. He is now a confident member of the group and is always willing to help others when needed, including myself in the workshop.

"He is now looking forward to an interview with Rochdale Borough Housing where he is hoping to secure an apprenticeship in plastering."

Michael said: "I have really enjoyed my time at college. I'm really thankful for the award, it's really nice for my tutors to recognise my work like this."

Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery student William Slater (19), from Shaw, clinched the College's ultimate honour, The Star of the Year (Gold) Award.

His tutor, Katie Allen, said: "William has demonstrated an exceptional level of progress this year and has become an absolutely invaluable source of help to his lecturer, Sam Everett, in the Riverside Restaurant."

Speaking at the awards evening, William said: "I'm really chuffed to have been nominated. I really love cooking and working in the kitchen, particularly at the Hopwood Hall's Riverside Restaurant, where I feel I have grown in confidence over the last year."