CELEBRATING ELITE SHINING STARS – The Top 1% Of Yeovil College
Yeovil College recently held its prestigious Shining Stars Awards Ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic year. Shining Stars is a prestigious celebration event that spotlighted the exceptional talents of 65 students.
This end-of-year celebration, held in the Westlands Entertainment Venue on the 6th of June, acknowledged the remarkable efforts, achievements, and perseverance of students across the entire spectrum of the College’s curriculum, including A Levels, T Levels, Vocational Qualifications, and Apprenticeships.
The event celebrated the success of 65 students from a cohort of over 4,500 eligible candidates, receiving over 56 awards. Families, friends, and the Yeovil College team joined them, alongside local business leaders, school representatives, and community influencers.
Mark Bolton, the CEO & Principal of Yeovil College, led the ceremony with inspiring words:
“Tonight, we come together not only to acknowledge the exceptional talent among us but also to inspire a legacy of achievement that will resonate with future generations of Yeovil College students. We stand firm in our belief that success generates further success. By casting a spotlight on the extraordinary, we nurture a culture of aspiration and accomplishment.
“Our commitment to our learners and the community is unwavering. We are tirelessly dedicated to providing nothing but the best—support, learning environments, resources, technology, and pathways for advancement. Our vision is clear: to enact the most profound transformation possible within our community, to unlock opportunities that our families, friends, and colleagues rightfully deserve. We are confident that we are making a difference.
“To all the honorees tonight, congratulations—you are indeed the Shining Stars of Yeovil College. Dream big, make those dreams tangible plans, and with hard work, you will see them come to fruition. Your presence here is proof of that—continue to strive for even greater heights.”
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Overall Student Winner of the Shining Stars 2024, bestowed upon Grace Burnard. Selected from an elite group representing the top 0.1% of the student body, and following an exceptional work placement, Grace has been described as an asset to the team, providing the best opportunity for the children within her care, and a committed role model to others.
Representing the student body, Keira Stevenson, a Level 3 Engineering Apprentice, shared her journey of growth and confidence at Yeovil College. Inspired by the success of her granddad; determined to challenge perceptions; keen to step outside of her comfort zone, are statements which aptly describe Keira, who is the first female engineer within her family. In her opening address, Keira describes her own ‘non-linear’ education and career journey from midwifery to engineering Apprentice at Leonardo UK, and her stoic belief around ‘embracing all that makes you scared’.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees and gratitude to the supportive network of businesses, schools, families, and the Yeovil College community, whose collective efforts made the event a resounding success.
Shining Stars Award Ceremony Winners
A Level Business & Professional Subjects Shining Star – Levi Parsons
Humanities Shining Star – Trinity Palfreeman
Social Science Shining Star – Anya Briggs
Science & Maths Shining Star – Balqees Adediran
Arts Shining Star – Leon Churchill
Innovation in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Sacha Buchan
Practical Skills in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Rowan Chapman
Commitment to Learning in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Amy Santos
Business Achievement Shining Star – Max Crocker
Business Entrepreneurial Shining Star – Joshua Watkins
Business Innovation Shining Star – Jack Brimble
Determination and Commitment within Computing Shining Star – Oskar Mielczarek
T Level Digital Support Services Shining Star – Joshua Wilkins
T Level Digital Transition Programme Shining Star – Ryan Harris
T Level Digital Production, Design and Development Shining Star – Luke Thomas
Carpentry & Joinery Shining Star – Alfie Simpkin
Bricklaying Shining Star – Toni Wiltshire
Plumbing Shining Star – Charlie King
Fire and Security Shining Star – Connor Moseley
Electrical Shining Star – Si Warner
Construction Ambassador Shining Star – Charlotte Bobbett
Design Shining Star – Kyryl Shvydchenko
Art Shining Star – Drew Noer
Media Shining Star – Boo Matebele
Innovation in Engineering Shining Star – Ollie Howell
Practical Skills in Engineering Shining Star – Jack Edwards
Commitment to Learning in Engineering Shining Star – Boyd Robertson
Institute of Engineering and Technology Shining Star – sponsored by IET – Keira Stevenson
ESOL Shining Star – Annarita Maio
English Shining Star – Quinn Helleur
Maths Shining Star – Andreea Odica
Supported Intern Shining Star – Matthew White
Progression Pathways (Personal Development) Shining Star – Charlie Wills
Preparation for Life and Work Shining Star – Macy Swan
Preparation for Adulthood Shining Star – Calib Hibbitt
Sector Pathways Shining Star – Joshua Doye
Beauty Therapist Shining Star – Lilly Daniels
Hairdressing Shining Star – Amanda Williams
Barbering Shining Star – Liam Broadbent
Professional Cookery Shining Star – Dominic Burdett
Hospitality Shining Star – Sarah Mounter
Introduction to Hospitality Shining Star – Diezel Genge
Health Shining Star – Kira Holt
Social Care Shining Star – Lis Stirling
Education and Early Years Shining Star – Tiegan Lewandowski
Oustanding Health, Care, Early Years and Access to Higher Education Shining Star – Kaylie Read
Access to Higher Education Shining Star – Krystal Carter
Protective Services Shining Star – Thomas Hvass
Sports Coaching and Exercise Science Shining Star – Maria Watkins-Arthur
Performance Football Shining Star – Joshua Haskett
Sport and Protective Services Ambassador Shining Star – Lewis Tordoff-Mcbride
Work Placement Learner of the Year – Grace Burnard
Apprentice of the Year – Ryan Larcombe
T Level Learner of the Year – Harry Fleming
West of England Institute of Technology Award – Oliver Saunders
Team Sport Performance of the Year – Yeovil College Girls Football Team
Overall Shining Star – Grace Burnard
If you wish to download or view any photos from the event please follow the link at: Yeovil College Shining Stars 2024 – Dropbox