A group of students from Alton College recently celebrated their academic, vocational and technical success at the annual Student of the Year Awards ceremony.
On Tuesday 8 July 2025, these inspirational students came together with family and friends to recognise their fantastic achievements in a prestigious ceremony held in Alton College’s Martin Read Hall.
Suki Dhesi, Deputy Principal for Curriculum and Quality, presented awards to students who have excelled in a range of subjects throughout the academic year. These include Performing Arts, Public Services, Mathematics and Science, as well as many others.
Speaking about the success of the Alton students, Suki said:
Suki Dhesi opened the awards ceremony with words of congratulation for the winners.
“Today is about sharing and celebrating your experiences. You have all shown immense determination to be here today, and the skills you’ve developed during your time at Alton will stand you in excellent stead to succeed in the future. Your teachers nominated you for these awards because you have gone consistently above and beyond what is expected of you. Congratulations to you all!”
These students also received special citations from their teachers which showcased the incredible impact that the students have had on their own education, as well as College life.
Rita Halchevska won Student of the Year for Visual Arts & Media. Rita, who is originally from Ukraine, spoke passionately about the support that Alton College has provided her throughout her time here:
Rita Halchevska won Student of the Year for Visual Arts & Media.
“I have to give a special mention to the teachers who were always there for me, helping me to overcome both academic and personal challenges. There is such a friendly vibe on campus, and I would urge any students coming here to study something that you’re truly passionate about.”
Melanie Pidd won Student of the Year for Performing Arts & Music, and featured in various dance showcases throughout her two years at the College. Speaking about her time at Alton, Melanie said:
Melanie Pidd won Student of the Year for Performing Arts & Music.
“When I first came to Alton College, I was able to make new friends so easily. It’s got a real community feel to it, you feel like everyone knows everyone and get along with each other really well. The highlight of my time here has to be the dance shows, these were a great opportunity to work together with new friends from both first and second year.”
Josh Nod won Student of the Year for Mathematics as a result of his incredible work to soar beyond expectations on the course. When asked what he thought the best part about studying at Alton College was, Josh said:
Josh Nod won Student of the Year for Mathematics.
“The teachers have been absolutely fantastic, particularly in the Mathematics department. They’ve been so helpful in supporting my studies, and I truly feel like I’ve greatly benefitted from studying here. I would encourage anyone coming to Alton to be inquisitive and ask as many questions as possible, because the teachers will always be willing to help you.”
Mike Baker, Chair of the Alton College Foundation, presented awards to two students.
Four awards were also given out on behalf of the Alton College Foundation, an organisation that helps the College to provide assistance to students and staff who may need it. Mike Baker, director of the ACF, was in attendance, and gave out awards to students who had embarked on engineering apprenticeships. Two more ACF Awards were very kindly sponsored by a former Alton student, Ash Grove, and were also given to engineering students.
As the evening came to a close, there was one more award to be given out. The overall Alton College Student of the Year Award went to Tegan Peers-Holland, who also won Student of the Year for Sport & Public Services. Tegan has been an exceptional student, both in and out of College.
She received the award as a result of her sheer dedication to others, helping to coach (and play for) the college netball team, running local sports events, giving talks at secondary schools, working at college Open Events, and even raising over £1000 for charity during a 12-hour Netball match. Speaking about her time at Alton, Tegan said:
Tegan Peers-Holland won the overall award for Alton College Student of the Year.
“It’s been such a rewarding experience being at Alton. The teachers are all incredible and have supported me throughout my time here, especially during the 12-hour charity match – that was a real highlight! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here and will miss it so much.”
Everybody at Alton College and HSDC is incredibly proud of all the award winners, and wishes them all the best as they embark on their next adventures!