SHINING STARS AWARDS CEREMONY: BEING PART OF THE 0.1% CLUB AT YEOVIL COLLEGE

Held on Thursday June 12th at the Westlands Entertainment Venue, the ceremony recognised the remarkable efforts, achievements, and ambition of students across the College’s diverse curriculum, including A Levels, T Levels, Vocational Qualifications, Apprenticeships and Access to Higher Education.

From a pool of over 5,500 eligible candidates, the elite 0.1% of the Yeovil College student community were honoured with more than 60 prestigious awards. The event was attended by families, friends, the Yeovil College team, local business leaders, school representatives, and community influencers.

Mark Bolton, CEO & Principal of Yeovil College, delivered an inspiring speech:

“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 honourees tonight, congratulations—you are indeed the Shining Stars of Yeovil College. Dream big, turn those dreams into 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 Shining Stars 2025, awarded to Jack Buckler. Selected from an elite group representing the top 0.1% of the student body. Jack received the prestigious accolade for ‘Demonstrating outstanding performance and dedication throughout his T Level course and setting a high standard for his peers. Jack’s professionalism during his end-point assessment was exceptional, and his passion for inspiring future learners truly stands out. Being shortlisted for the EAL Enginuity National Award is also testament to his hard work and ambition.’

The student body was represented on the evening by guest speaker Freya Woollett, a Yeovil College Mechanical Engineering Technician Apprentice at Leonardo Helicopters UK. Originally from Essex, Freya transitioned from a background in musical theatre to aerospace engineering, gaining hands-on experience with aircraft mechanical systems while studying for an HNC in Aeronautical Engineering at Yeovil College.

Freya is a passionate advocate for diversity in engineering, serving as Chair of AeroWomen since 2023 and as the Young Persons Representative for the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Yeovil branch. In 2024, she received the WEAF Unsung Hero Award for her behind-the-scenes leadership. She has accepted a role in Leonardo’s Electrical Installation Design department, working on the AW101 aircraft, and plans to continue her studies toward becoming a chartered engineer.

Yeovil College were delighted to be supported by a number of local business and youth talent:

• Westlands Entertainment Venue, providing us with a fantastic venue.
• Brimsmore Garden Centre, for donating the stunning flower arrangements.
• Len Copland, for his outstanding photography services.
• Funtasia Entertainment for supplying their state-of-the-art 360 Video Booth.
• Eminence Dance Academy for their extraordinary performance.

Shining Stars Award Ceremony Winners 2025

Preparation for Adulthood Shining Star – Olivia Darch

Preparation for Life and Work Shining Star – Cody Barber-Palfrey

Progression Pathways (Personal Development) Shining Star – Ellis Buckingham

Sector Pathways Shining Star – Mohammad Hashemi

Supported Internship Shining Star – Ella Washbourne

Bricklaying Shining Star – June Farrell

Carpentry & Joinery Shining Star – Aidan Cunningham

Electrical Shining Star – Henry Orman

Fire and Security Shining Star – Joseph Pow

Plumbing Shining Star – Luke Padfield

ESOL Shining Star – Urvashi Sanandiya

English Shining Star – Stuart Mchugh

Maths Shining Star – Chelsea Kunze

Kickstart Programme Shining Star – Aayusha Thapa

Barbering Shining Star – Cody Merrett

Hairdressing Shining Star – Tiffany Taylor

Beauty Therapy Shining Star – Isabella Mathews

Media Makeup Shining Star – Hayley-Jade Spearing

Introduction to Hospitality Shining Star – Priscilla Titus

Hospitality Shining Star – Brooke Stelloo

Professional Cookery Shining Star – Eli Cox

Business Outstanding Achievement Shining Star – Ethan Shepherd

Business Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Shining Star – Liam Card

Business Leadership and Project Management Excellence Shining Star – Jack Hope

Business Dedication and Commitment Shining Star – Madison Aldridge

Determination and Commitment within Computing Shining Star – Nikki Tavener

T Level Digital Transition Programme Shining Star – Jack New

T Level Digital Support Services Shining Star – Ryan Laver

T Level Digital Production, Design and Development Shining Star – Luke Thomas

Art Shining Star – George Griffey

Design Shining Star – Leelah Khan

Media Shining Star – Kai Helyar

Dental Shining Star – Sofia Jones

Commitment to Learning in Engineering Shining Star – Teegan Kelley

Innovation in Engineering Shining Star – Joshua Harper

Practical Skills in Engineering Shining Star – Ben Wilson

Institute of Engineering and Technology Shining Star (Sponsored by IET) – Jayv Lumampao

Art & Literature Shining Star – Thomas Soord

A Level Business & Professional Subjects Shining Star – Oliver Hodder

Humanities Shining Star – Isabelle Sims

Social Science Shining Star – Emonena Agbuke

Science & Maths Shining Star – Charlie Mullard

Commitment to Learning in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Ryan Mellor

Innovation in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Freddie Haskett

Practical Skills in Automotive Engineering Shining Star – Ruby Chapman

Early Years Shining Star – Ruby Farrant

Education Shining Star – Sophie Trott

Health Shining Star – Rosemary Ihenetu

Social Care Shining Star – Martha Stranger

Access to Higher Education Shining Star – Jess Treasure-Brown

Protective Services Shining Star – Amiyah King

Sports Coaching and Exercise Science Shining Star – Abby Stormont

Sport and Protective Services Ambassador Shining Star – Abigail Johnson

Jones Building Group YIS Sports Person of the Year – Jessica Gold

Jones Building Group YIS Team Performance of the Year – Female College Fitness Games Squad

Student Ambassador of the Year – William Sullivan

Apprentice of the Year – Oliver Gray

Extraordinary Commitment to Apprenticeship Apprentice of the Year – Nathaniel Bielby

Foundation Learning Work Placement Learner of the Year – Tia Morgan

Work Placement Learner of the Year – Theo Chorley

T Level Learner of the Year – Jack Buckler

West of England Institute of Technology Award – Oliver Everest and Sarah Mastrogiannopoulou

Overall Shining Star – Jack Buckler