First Minister praises college students of 2020

The First Minister has congratulated students on graduating amid a global pandemic.

Ayrshire College’s Class of 2020 graduated via a virtual ceremony recently.

Hosted by WestFM popular breakfast DJ Billy Kirkwood, viewers were surprised with messages of congratulations from their lecturers, as well as celebrities including Rangers manager Steven Gerrard, Celtic captain Scott Brown, Still Game actor Mark Cox, and comedian Janey Godley.

The First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told graduates: “As an Ayrshire girl, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate all of you on your graduation from Ayrshire College.

“Graduating at any time is a really impressive achievement- but it’s particularly impressive in these really tough times.

“You’re not getting your usual graduation celebration but hopefully when all of the COVID shenanigans are over, you’ll be able to celebrate in style.

“But for now, enjoy your achievement. Well done, and congratulations.”

There were 33 special prizes handed out to students on the night.

For the Ayr Campus, these were; Student of the Year for Business, Computing, Travel and Tourism and Events: Leanne Steele, HND Business

Student of the Year for Care: Samantha Crothers, HNC Care and Administrative Practice

Student of the Year for Creative: Leah Batty, HNC Music

Student of the Year for Construction Technology and Trades: Neil Robertson, HNC Architectural Technology

Student of the Year for Early Years: Donna Rowlands, HNC Childhood Practice

Student of the Year for Engineering and Science: Rachel Rutter, HNC Applied Science

Student of the Year for Hair, Beauty, Complementary Therapies and Make- Up Artistry: Amber Buchanan, HND Make- Up Artistry

Student of the Year for Hospitality: Andrew Hughes, HNC Hospitality

Student of the Year for Social Science: Kenny Allison, HND Social Science

Making a Difference in the Community: Lesley O’Hara, HND Travel and Tourism

Making a Difference in the Community: Nicola McQuillan, HNC Childhood Practice

Outstanding Achievement: Kai Green, HND Aircraft Engineering

• Students and their families can now watch The 2020 Ayrshire College graduation ceremonies available to watch in their entirety on Ayrshire College’s YouTube page.