Reaseheath celebrates student success at 2026 Presentation of Awards

Hundreds of students stepped into the spotlight last week as Reaseheath College and University Centre hosted its annual Presentation of Awards events.

The week began on Monday, June 22nd with a celebration of students who entered and were published in the national Young Writers Stranger Sagas competition.

Opening the event, Principal and CEO Marcus Clinton praised the students’ creativity before certificates were presented and a special trophy was awarded to Freyja Love by industry sponsor Anna Bates of Room 11 Coaching, alongside Julia Yeardley from the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce.

The celebrations continued with the main ceremonies on Tuesday, June 23rd and Wednesday, June 24th, bringing together families, staff and industry partners to recognise students completing their qualifications across land-based, technical and vocational areas.

Unfortunately, extreme weather conditions meant the final planned ceremony had to be cancelled. While this was disappointing for the students and families affected, college leaders reaffirmed that these achievements remain fully recognised. Plans are now under way to ensure Agriculture, Business, Countryside, Horticulture, Floristry, Food and Foundation award winners receive the acknowledgement they deserve.

Both ceremonies were opened by Chair of Governors Jane Cowell and Marcus Clinton, before special guest speakers shared their experiences and highlighted the opportunities available to Reaseheath graduates.

On Tuesday, former Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire and author John Dwyer addressed students from Public Services, Sport, Construction, Agricultural Engineering and Motor Vehicle.

On Wednesday, Animal Management alumna Kayla Bebbington, now a Dog Wellbeing Technician at Guide Dogs, returned to inspire graduates from Animal Management, Equine and Access to Higher Education.

Closing each ceremony, outgoing Reaseheath Students’ Union President Eli Broadhurst delivered the vote of thanks, celebrating the hard work, friendships and memories created throughout the year.

Reflecting on the week, Principal Clinton said: “I want to say a huge well done to every single student who completed their qualification this year, you have all been absolutely fantastic.

“It was wonderful to start the week on such a high by celebrating our creative national Young Writers winners, and equally brilliant to see so many families and industry partners coming together for our main ceremonies.

“However, we are incredibly sorry for the deep disappointment caused to those whose ceremony was disrupted by the extreme weather, and we are working on plans to ensure your hard work is properly marked.

“To the entire class of 2026, we wish you every success in your future careers. You will always be a part of the Reaseheath community, so please do keep in touch and let us know where your journey takes you next.”