TWO Winsford students have scooped honours in Cheshire College’s annual awards this week.

Thirty-three individual awards were presented to students who had completed a wide range of courses including A Levels, vocational qualifications, higher education qualifications and apprenticeships.

Richard Postles, 18, who won Hospitality and Catering Student of the Year, said: “I enjoyed studying food technology at high school and when I came to the open day at college I was really impressed.

“The college had just been awarded its AA Rosette for The Academy restaurant and has a great reputation for its links to industry. I’m studying full-time at college but I’ve also got an apprentice chef position working part-time for Brunning & Price’s Hayhurst Arms in Northwich.

“The tutors here are great – I feel really privileged that they are passing on their knowledge and passion for food to me. As well as working in the restaurant I’ve worked at events at Nantwich Football Club and the Chester Food Festival.

“I’ve just finished my Level 2 in hospitality and catering and will start my Level 3 in September.”

Sophie Cliffe, 17, also from Winsford, who won Science Student of the Year, said: “I’ve just completed my first year of a BTEC in forensic science and I’ve also completed an AS in psychology.

“I’ve always been interested in forensic science – the idea of being able to solve cases and help people really appealed to me. I was a police cadet and I’ve done a lot of volunteering which I’ve enjoyed.

“The course has been really good – I’ve loved learning about fingerprints, DNA and genetics. One of my highlights was visiting the Crime Scene House in Stoke where we got the chance to collect evidence just like we would do in real life.

“Once I’ve completed my course I’m hoping to study forensic science at Staffordshire University.”

They were praised for their excellent academic achievements and for the impressive ambition, determination and enthusiasm they demonstrated which helped them to reach their goals.

Guest speaker for the evening was adventure travel writer and broadcast journalist Simon Parker who delivered a fascinating and thought-provoking speech.

Dhesi, principal and chief executive at Cheshire College – South & West, said: “This is a very special evening. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to recognise the outstanding achievements of these learners, in front of the family, friends and tutors who supported them along the way.

“We are committed to helping all of our learners reach their potential so that they can enjoy successful futures.”

To find out more information about courses at Cheshire College – South & West call the College hotline on 01270 654654.