Students from Stanton and Great Finborough win prizes at annual Suffolk New College awards in Ipswich

A student who wants to have his own landscaping company in the future is among those to receive a top award.

Ethan Scott, 16, from Great Finborough, near Stowmarket, was named horticulture student of the year at the annual Suffolk New College awards and showcase evening, in Ipswich.

Ethan said: “I like being outdoors. I enjoy learning new skills and I want to have my own landscaping company in the future. I was shocked (to win).”

Ethan’s mum, Kim Whiter, said: “I’m really proud. He is enjoying college more than school. He is following his passion. Maybe one day we might see him at Chelsea [flower show].”

Also to win was Chloe Attridge, from Stanton, near Bury St Edmunds, who took home the equine learner of the year prize.

She said: “It was a great honour to win.”

Her dad Lee said: “From our point of view, since going to college, Chloe has grown so much in confidence.”

The event shines a light on student achievement and learners also get to showcase their talents via musical performances.

Alan Pease, principal and chief executive officer of Suffolk New College, reflected during his speech on the recent visit of the prime minister to the college and outlined some of the exciting developments in recent months.

These include the creation of an upgraded animal centre as well as news of a new campus building in Leiston.

He said: “We recently had the distinct honour of hosting the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer.

“His words of praise for our college community and – especially our learners – was truly uplifting. During these awards, we carry that same spirit of pride and celebration as we reflect on the incredible and inspirational accomplishments that our students have made in what has been a truly outstanding year.”

Other award winners included Sarah Morgan, 38, from Framlingham, who was crowned childcare learner of the year.

She has been studying her teaching assistant course, juggling trips to London to support her husband who is having medical treatment, whilst looking after two children and working full time.

Osman Adam received ESOL learner of the year after raising over £1,200 for the YMCA when he ran the London Marathon in a time of three hours and four minutes.

And 19-year-old Davide Oggero, from Cambridge, won chef of the year. Davide has just secured a job at the Michelin Star eatery Restaurant 22.

All winners received prizes or cash worth up to £150.00, a goodie bag and a certificate.

Every single prize was sponsored by a local or national company.

One sponsor was Anne and David Baalham in memory of their family member Mark, a former student of the college who passed away.

Food was provided by learners who are currently on courses studied via the Suffolk Centre for Culinary Arts.

Students Lily Kemp, Indigo Kirby and Daryas Mustfai treated the 300 guests to a series of live music performances.