MORE than 50 high achieving and dedicated students were handed awards at Seevic College’s annual Student Awards Evening.

The college celebrated a superb year of success with principal Dan Pearson awarding prizes to students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement, exceptional commitment or overcome significant barriers to achieve their qualifications.

Students were also presented with certificates after successfully completing their Higher National Certificates and Diplomas.

Holly Smiles, 18, of Benfleet, who completed a Travel and Tourism Diploma, was named as Student of the Year.

Presenting the award, Mr Pearson said: “The winner of this award has shown drive and determination in securing a job in the industry she wants a career in, whilst still maintaining her commitment to her studies at the college.

“She got accepted as a student helper before later gaining employment as ground staff at the airport, and still managed to get a Distinction in her Travel and Tourism Diploma.

Holly said: “I’m overwhelmed.

“I never knew what I wanted to do, it was the last year at college I really figured out what I wanted to do. I wasn’t expecting to win this at all.”

Mr Pearson added: “Our Student Awards ceremony is a great event that shows how our students make exceptional progress from their starting points.

“It is a time to reflect on all of the hard work and a chance to reward those that have put in extra effort.

“Congratulations to all our award winners and I wish them well for the future.”