College duo given prestigious accolade for academic work
A PRESTIGIOUS accolade for academic excellence has been presented to two degree students at Loughborough College.
Kirsty Tebutt and Anna Rucka were each honoured with The Dean’s Award from the University of Derby for producing work of the highest standard.
The recognition for the pair, who are studying towards a degree in Children’s and Young People’s Services, comes hot on the heels of an outstanding National Student Survey result which saw the Higher Education Care teaching team at Loughborough College achieve 100 per cent overall satisfaction
“I couldn’t believe it but was also so happy when I heard I would be receiving the Dean’s Award. It is not easy to combine study with a job and bringing up a family so it was really special to be recognised for my academic achievements,” said Kirsty, who works as a teaching assistant at a primary school alongside her college course.
She added: “It is a challenge to work full time and also care for my husband and twin teenage girls but they are proud of what I’m doing and help out. Loughborough College has also been so supportive. When we had a serious illness in the family recently the course tutors gave me extra time for my assignments. Their flexibility and help has been invaluable.
Anna Rucka said: “I was very shocked when I heard I would be receiving the award. I work full time, I’m raising a family and English is my second language so I have found it hard to study.
“I worked for eight years at the Radmoor Nursery at Loughborough College alongside studying for my ESOL and GCSE English as well as my level 2 and 3 childcare qualification. Now I am a learning support assistant at a primary school and studying with the College towards my degree.
“I arrived from Poland 12 years ago and my two sons have been fantastic helping me with my English. My husband also supports me wherever he can. I have to be motivated with everything I have going on but the tutors at Loughborough College are brilliant at supporting me.”
Loughborough College Early Years Education lecturer Gaynor Rice said: “Anna and Kirsty are exemplary students and both have produced work of a consistently high standard whilst combining this with work, and home, commitments. I am really proud of their achievements.”