The University Centre Weston (UCW) celebrated its best and brightest during a dazzling annual awards night held on Wednesday, April 24.

Attendees relished an evening packed with high-spirited entertainment courtesy of UCW's BA (Hons) Musical Theatre students, who performed renditions of crowd pleasers including 'Shut Up and Dance' by Walk the Moon, 'Wings' by Little Mix, and the timeless 'Mamma Mia' by Abba.

The award-giving ceremony was led by Vice Principal for higher education, Sadie Skellon, and Interim Principal and CEO, Jacqui Ford.

Award-recipients of the night were acknowledged for their exceptional dedication and achievement across different disciplines.

Sara, Nigel, Zoe, Benjamin, and Lauren were celebrated as Students of the Year in Business and Professional Services, Counselling, Education and Healthcare, Creative, Engineering and Construction, and Sport and Sciences respectively.

The event also highlighted the brilliance of Courtney and Ffinian, recognised as Student Ambassador and Student Representative of the Year.

Sustainability Society received the Team of the Year award, while Emma McKechnie, Leanne Preston, Andreas Papadopoulos, and Sarah Leaney were honoured for their standout contributions in their respective roles.

Puxton Park clinched the position of Outstanding Work Placement Provider of the Year.

Anticipation soared as the latter part of the celebration saw the announcement of the Principal’s Gold Awards.

Claire Arbery, director of the West of England Institute of Technology, was in attendance to present the Institute of Technology Learner of the Year award to Nigel.

DPL Partnerships' managing director, James Davison, presented the Outstanding Contribution to UCW Award to Abby Dobson.

The final accolade, Higher Education Student of the Year award, was won by Lauren.

Ms Skellon said: "Through the nominations, we were told of outstanding academic achievements; of students overcoming personal challenges to succeed; of staff going above and beyond to support our learners; and of organisations investing their resources in the professional development of UCW students and graduates.

"It was therefore exceptionally difficult to choose the winners in each category, whether a winner or nominee everyone should feel very proud of their achievements, we are very proud of you."

The UCW Awards 2024 was undeniably a powerful demonstration of UCW's talent, commitment, and spirit of excellence.

DPL Partnerships, the primary sponsor, and other supporters including PACE, the Institute of Technology, Skylight Property, and Uncle Paul’s Chilli Charity were specifically thanked for their undwindling commitment and invaluable partnership.