Student Jonathan has been named runner-up in the Adult Student of the Year (19+) category at the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year awards, recognising his leadership, support for fellow students and work championing young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The announcement was made during an evening of celebration and recognition at the AoC Annual Conference dinner on Tuesday 10 November, honouring the achievements of all finalists and winners. Jonathan, a 22-year-old residential student from Hampshire, attended with his guest, Senior Support Practitioner Lily Davies.
Reflecting on the event, Jonathan said: “It was really surreal to go up on stage and watch the video about me. Being named runner-up felt amazing and really moving – I was speechless. It was a bit painful not to win, but I feel I’ve done Derwen College proud. The band, singers and violin players were amazing, and meeting ITV news presenter Sameena Ali-Khan was another moment I’ll never forget. The whole place felt very welcoming and relaxed. I’m really grateful to all the staff who nominated me and helped me get there, and for the opportunity.”
Jonathan, a Retail and Enterprise student, has grown in confidence and independence during his time at College, becoming a peer mentor and a voice for others at college, in the community and at national events.
During two years as elected Student Council President, Jonathan worked to make a difference for fellow students, campaigning for safer roads, more accessible shopping and new social opportunities in the local community. He has worked with local councillors and helped create opportunities for students to socialise at local nightclub, Gibbos.
Student Voice
He has also represented young people with SEND at Natspec Parliament and Naidex, sharing his experiences and speaking up about the support that helps students succeed.
Jonathan said: “Derwen College has been the best fit for me because I’ve flourished and got a lot better with my anxiety. Student Voice is a big thing here.”
His achievements extend beyond student representation. Through his Retail and Enterprise pathway, Jonathan gains work experience in the college’s The Vintage Advantage charity shop and Garden Centre shop. He also puts his online-sales skills into practice by selling items on Vinted.
Jonathan has completed his Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and is working towards Gold. His sporting achievements include completing the Young Leader in Cricket programme, achieving the Youth Sport Trust “I AM Leader” Award and captaining the college football team.
Learning to travel independently has been another significant milestone. Before joining Derwen, Jonathan could not have managed public transport alone. Following travel training, he now makes the journey between Shropshire and his family home in Hampshire independently, and helps other students in his accommodation develop their own travel and everyday living skills.
‘Wonderful ambassador’
Derwen College Principal and CEO Meryl Green said: “Jonathan is a wonderful ambassador for College and we are all so proud of him. His amazing achievements are a reflection of what young people with SEND can do given the right support within the right setting.
“To be recognised among students from over 250 further education colleges is an outstanding achievement. It is a real credit to his hard work, his determination and the difference he makes to others.”
Derwen College is proud to be part of Natspec’s ‘The Power of Specialist FE’ campaign, which runs from 23–27 November. Jonathan’s story brings its focus on inclusion to life, showing how specialist education can help young people build confidence, independence and a voice in their community.
Jonathan sums up what that support means to him and his peers: “We want to share our experiences and let people know what works and what we want. It’s clear to see that we’re achieving and thriving because of specialist education.”
