CELEBRATING ELITE SHINING STARS – THE TOP 1% OF YEOVIL COLLEGE
Released On 15th Jun 2024
Yeovil College recently held its prestigious Shining Stars Awards Ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic year. Shining Stars is a prestigious celebration event that spotlighted the exceptional talents of 65 students.
This end-of-year celebration, held in the Westlands Entertainment Venue on the 6th of June, acknowledged the remarkable efforts, achievements, and perseverance of students across the entire spectrum of the College’s curriculum, including A Levels, T Levels, Vocational Qualifications, and Apprenticeships.
The event celebrated the success of 65 students from a cohort of over 4,500 eligible candidates, receiving over 56 awards. Families, friends, and the Yeovil College team joined them, alongside local business leaders, school representatives, and community influencers.
Mark Bolton, the CEO & Principal of Yeovil College, led the ceremony with inspiring words:
“Tonight, we come together not only to acknowledge the exceptional talent among us but also to inspire a legacy of achievement that will resonate with future generations of Yeovil College students. We stand firm in our belief that success generates further success. By casting a spotlight on the extraordinary, we nurture a culture of aspiration and accomplishment.
“Our commitment to our learners and the community is unwavering. We are tirelessly dedicated to providing nothing but the best—support, learning environments, resources, technology, and pathways for advancement. Our vision is clear: to enact the most profound transformation possible within our community, to unlock opportunities that our families, friends, and colleagues rightfully deserve. We are confident that we are making a difference.
“To all the honorees tonight, congratulations—you are indeed the Shining Stars of Yeovil College. Dream big, make those dreams tangible plans, and with hard work, you will see them come to fruition. Your presence here is proof of that—continue to strive for even greater heights.”
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Overall Student Winner of the Shining Stars 2024, bestowed upon Grace Burnard. Selected from an elite group representing the top 0.1% of the student body, and following an exceptional work placement, Grace has been described as an asset to the team, providing the best opportunity for the children within her care, and a committed role model to others.
Representing the student body, Keira Stevenson, a Level 3 Engineering Apprentice, shared her journey of growth and confidence at Yeovil College. Inspired by the success of her granddad; determined to challenge perceptions; keen to step outside of her comfort zone, are statements which aptly describe Keira, who is the first female engineer within her family. In her opening address, Keira describes her own ‘non-linear’ education and career journey from midwifery to engineering Apprentice at Leonardo UK, and her stoic belief around ‘embracing all that makes you scared’.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees and gratitude to the supportive network of businesses, schools, families, and the Yeovil College community, whose collective efforts made the event a resounding success.
