Matt is York College’s Student Role Model of the Year

Blog | 22 August 2022

Jenna Lloyd

Matt won the Inclusivity/Student Role Model Award at York College’s second annual REACH awards.

Matt’s been working really hard at York College, studying Health and Social Care Level 1. He previously volunteered at a local hospital and is now using our Supported Employment service to find paid work.

He was so pleased to win a REACH Award (Rewarding Excellence And Celebrating Hard work):

I’m really happy with myself and I knew I would win it.

The Awards were presented at a glittering ceremony and black tie dinner at York National Railway Museum in June. More than 200 people including students and their guests, tutors and governors attended the in-person event, which was held virtually last year.

There were four categories: Under 19s, Apprentice, Adults and Special Achievements.

Matt’s award was sponsored by York Minster so, along with his trophy and framed certificate, he won a private group tour of the cathedral.

Matt’s mum Louise said:

We were all just delighted that he’d been nominated for an award and invited to such a prestigious event.

Recognition and a glowing report

Matt’s Maths tutor Trisha said that he immediately sprung to mind as a nomination, because although he finds maths difficult, he attends every lesson and completes his homework. He is friendly to the teaching assistants and gets on well with them, accepting the support that they offer.

Tutors gave a 15-second video presentation, shown before the student’s name was announced. Trisha said she had to refilm her video as she went over time with her glowing report on Matt!

Matt’s tutor was seated next to an award sponsor from the recently refurbished No. 1 Hotel. The sponsor said that he was really impressed with all the student nominations and would look out for their names when sifting CVs.

York College Chief Executive and Principal, Lee Probert, said:

All the students here, whether nominees or winners, have an incredible story about their learning journey and it was heart-warming to see the commitment they put into their studies and their time at York College.