Sunderland College student Emily shortlisted for AoC Student of the Year Award

Sunderland College student, Emily Tinkler, has been named a finalist in the Higher Education Student of the Year category of the Association of College’s (AoC) awards 2023.

Emily, who recently graduated with a Distinction in HND Performance (Musical Theatre) was nominated by Vice Principal of Curriculum & Innovation, Judith Quinn, and Programme Leader for Performance, Lauren Robinson, for being an integral member of the college community and achieving extremely impressive grades throughout her studies.

The 20-year-old will travel to the AoC’s Annual Conference at the Birmingham NEC in November where award winners will be revealed, including Adult Student of the Year, Student Green Commitment, Apprentice of the Year, and Young Student of the Year.

Emily commented: “I wasn’t expecting it, but to have the privilege of even being shortlisted means so much.

“To be recognised for my achievements on such a large scale has given me the reassurance that I’ve been doing something right throughout my education, and it’s given me the drive to keep going.

“My lecturers pushed me to be the student I am, and after the countless opportunities they’ve given me, it is a testament to their passion and dedication. The college has got me this far to the finals, I just hope I do them proud.”

The Higher Education Student of the Year category seeks nominations from colleges to recognise outstanding and exceptional students who have studied a higher education programme at a college.

Emily’s Lecturer, Lauren Robinson added: “Emily is an impeccable student and has always been an integral part of the performance department. She is professional, ambitious, respectful, and innovative which is everything I encourage my students to be.

“I am extremely proud of Emily’s outstanding achievement and thankful to have been part of her hugely successful journey. It has been an honour to work with Emily whilst also learning and being inspired by her creative and artistic vision. I am confident she will continue to succeed in her future endeavours.”

The AoC’s annual awards honour extraordinary individuals from colleges across England who stand out from the crowd, or have gone the extra mile, whether it’s on campus or within their local community.

They are an opportunity to showcase their achievements, talents, and successes as well as the fantastic work that colleges and their students are doing in the Further Education sector.

Corrienne Peasgood, President of the AoC, said: “The Student of the Year Awards rightly shine a light on individuals who have made a significant impact in their college and/or community.

The finalists for all categories have all made outstanding contributions and should be extremely proud of their achievements.”

The winners will be invited to attend an awards celebration event in London in Spring 2024.