Talented students from Ashton Sixth Form College were given a helping-hand to pursue their studies after being presented with a John Nugent University Scholarship from The Stamford Group.

The presentation took place at The George Hatton Hall, Dukinfield Town Hall with a number of dignitaries in attendance including, Councillor Brenda Warrington, The Civic Mayor of Tameside, Andrew Gwynne and Jonathon Reynolds Members of Parliament for Denton and Reddish and Stalybridge and Hyde respectively, and guests including Headteachers, Principals and representatives of the participating Colleges.

Laura Hill was chosen to receive the John Nugent University Scholarship worth up to £12,000 whilst Natalie Wood narrowly missed out on the coveted prize, Natalie was instead rewarded for her excellent presentation skills and received £200 of book tokens for the “Best Presentation”.

In order to be considered for a scholarship students were asked to submit an essay about themselves including  their aims and ambitions, community involvement a and views on life, topical issues or events. After gaining a place on the final shortlist Laura and Natalie were also asked to attend an interview and give a presentation to a panel of judges.

“Both Laura and Natalie were equally worthy award winners. Both students were tremendously committed and worked really hard both inside and outside of college. I am sure they will go on to achieve great things at university and beyond and be ambassadors for Ashton Sixth Form College and Tameside as a whole.”

Ron Norman (Aston Sixth Form College XL/Gifted and Talented Co-ordinator)

Laura and Natalie join a long list of past Ashton Sixth Form College Students that have received scholarships including 2011 John Nugent University Scholarship winner Chor Kay Yeung.

Pictured from top left;

Mr Stephen Dubyl, Councillor Brenda Warrington, Mrs Katie Ferris, Mr Tim Rainey,

Middle Row

Mr Jonathon Reynolds MP Faisal Mohammed Ali Mr Andrew Gwynne MP

Front Row

Kirsten Cooper, Laura Hill, Natalie Wood and Erin Figg