HSDC’s campuses are home to countless exceptional students, all of whom make the College proud every day through their resilience, talent and dedication. Today, we are celebrating the fantastic achievements of nine particularly outstanding students, three from each campus, who have consistently gone above and beyond in their studies, contribution to college life and personal development.
Yasmeen Amer: Championing Wellbeing Through Sport
Yasmeen ran a community volleyball session earlier this year.
As a Wellbeing Sports Ambassador at HSDC Havant Campus, Yasmeen Amer demonstrated exceptional leadership through the AoC Sport Ambassador Programme. Yasmeen organised a successful volleyball session that brought students together while promoting physical and mental wellbeing. Working alongside Portsmouth Phoenix Volleyball Club and mental health charity Off The Record, she helped encourage greater participation in sport across the College. Yasmeen’s dedication to making physical activity accessible and enjoyable has made a lasting impact on the College community and reinforced HSDC’s commitment to student wellbeing.
Archie Dinnage: Defying the Odds in the London Marathon
Archie receiving an award from Kurt Hintz, Principal and CEO of HSDC.
South Downs student Archie Dinnage achieved something extraordinary when he completed the 2026 London Marathon in 4:35:45, raising more than £3,000 for charity. Having experienced significant health challenges throughout his childhood, including asthma and complications associated with being born prematurely, Archie transformed himself through months of dedicated training. His achievement reflects remarkable determination and resilience. Alongside his studies in Public Services, Archie hopes his improved fitness will support his ambition of joining the Royal Navy after completing his education.
Rhys Andrews: Gold Medal Success in Physics
Rhys with his certificate.
Havant Campus student Rhys Andrews achieved national recognition after winning a prestigious Gold Award in the British Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad. Studying A Levels in Physics, Maths and Further Maths, Rhys excelled in a competition that stretched well beyond the standard A Level curriculum. His success showcased outstanding problem-solving skills, academic curiosity and resilience when tackling complex scientific challenges. Aspiring to study Cosmology at university and eventually complete a PhD, Rhys has become an inspiring example of academic excellence at HSDC.
James Stefanaras: An Inspirational Apprenticeship Journey
James with Penny Wycherley, Chair of Governors.
Chef apprentice James Stefanaras has enjoyed a truly remarkable journey since arriving in the UK from Greece. After discovering a passion for cooking, he enrolled as a chef apprentice at HSDC and progressed from Commis Chef to Chef de Partie at The Briny in Southsea. James also served as a Student Governor, representing apprentices with distinction, and became the first student to receive the prestigious HSDC Award, an honour usually reserved for staff. His story of determination, ambition and community contribution has inspired students across the College.
Nathan Lintott: Engineering Student of the Year
Nathan’s achievements in engineering were recognised at the recent Alton College Awards.
Alton College student Nathan Lintott has been recognised for his outstanding achievements in engineering, recently receiving the Student of the Year Award for Engineering. Studying a T Level in Engineering, Nathan flourished through practical workshop projects and valuable industry placements, developing both technical expertise and a clear understanding of his future career aspirations. His ability to transform ideas into working prototypes demonstrated the high-level skills fostered within the College’s engineering programme and highlighted the opportunities available through industry-focused education.
Tia Oliver: Taking Flight with British Airways
Tia was able to use the state-of-the-art facilities at South Downs to prepare for a career in aviation.
Tia Oliver successfully secured her dream career with British Airways after completing HSDC South Downs’ fast-track Cabin Crew course. Completing the programme in just six months, Tia gained the confidence, technical knowledge and industry skills needed to impress recruiters and secure a role on her very first application. She is now working towards long-haul cabin crew qualifications after already becoming certified on several Airbus aircraft. Tia’s success highlights the transformative impact of vocational learning and employer-focused training at HSDC. =
Libby Hester: Excelling in Football and Education
Elite footballer Libby Hester has balanced high-level sport with academic success thanks to a bespoke timetable created by HSDC Havant Campus. Studying A Level PE and Criminology, Libby currently plays for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Under-19 squad, competing against some of the country’s strongest academies. HSDC’s tailored support has enabled her to meet both her educational commitments and demanding training schedule. Her achievements on and off the pitch demonstrate extraordinary discipline, dedication and ambition as she works towards a professional football career.
Ed Simpson: Building a Sustainable Future
Ed in the 3D Design workshop with his project.
Alton College student Ed Simpson has combined creativity, independence and environmental ambition throughout his studies. Taking A Levels in Product Design, History and Graphic Design, Ed embraced a wide range of enrichment opportunities and developed practical design skills through hands-on learning. His passion for the environment has led to an offer to study Ecology at the University of Reading, where he hopes to make a positive contribution to the natural world. Ed’s journey reflects the value of curiosity, creativity and perseverance.
Belle Pogson: Performing Arts Ambassador and Student of the Year
Belle with Suki Dhesi, Deputy Principal, at the Alton College Awards.
Belle Pogson has been named Alton College Student of the Year for Performing Arts and Music following her exceptional contribution to College life. Described by her teachers as a true ambassador for the department, Belle consistently demonstrated enthusiasm, commitment and leadership throughout her studies. Reflecting on her experience, Belle praised the welcoming atmosphere at Alton College and the support she received from staff. She said:
“This College really does feel like a little community, and the range of subjects was exactly what I was looking for. I’ve loved getting to know all of my teachers, they are so incredibly helpful and always happy to listen to your questions.”
Her award is a fitting recognition of an outstanding student journey.
Together, these nine students represent the very best of HSDC during the 2025-26 academic year, showcasing excellence in education, community engagement, personal development and future ambition. Their achievements embody the College’s mission of transforming lives and helping students fulfil their dreams.