The annual Bedford College Achievements Ceremony was a glittering occasion. 

As the town’s Christmas fireworks lit up the skies outside, star students shone inside the Bedford Corn Exchange.

The college’s track record now means it is No 1 not just in the county but in the economic region with the latest Government data proving is has more 16-18 year olds, more apprentices, more University-level and part-time students than anywhere else.

Principal and CEO Ian Pryce CBE catalogued the list of world-beating achievements and awards achieved by college staff and students for the audience of civic dignitaries, VIPs and proud parents.

“Success is about an orgnanisation’s environment and ours comprises our community, our employers, our governors, our staff, our students and their supporters and I want to thank each in turn,” said Mr Pryce,

“We are lucky to have MPs on our patch who take a keen interest in our work, particularly Richard Fuller. Similarly our local authorities are supportive and Mayor Dave Hodgson is actively championing growth in apprenticeships.”

“Governors are now planning ahead to 2021 further securing the college’s position as one of the most stable and successful in the FE sector,” he added.

Guests speaker for the evening was young entrepreneur Zak Resinato. After training at Bedford College, Zak has gone on to national success with deals with Sainsbury’s and retail parks opening 13 Jagged Edge barber pods and shops. His combination of creative talent and business vision has been supported by Bedford College which has entered into a unique academy arrangement for training 50 Jagged Edge staff. 

“Congratulations to everyone here at Bedford College and my message is to invest energy in enjoying what you do, whatever your career choice,” said Zak.

He joined Ian Pryce in presenting certificates to the three finalists in the Student of the Year Award. The winner was Emma Lemon a BTEC Higher National Diploma student in Art & Design, and runners-up were Oskar Kutyla BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering and Mia Tomlinson Foundation Degree in Child & Family Studies.

A wide range of businesses and organisations sponsored many of the prizes awarded to students. 

Performing Arts students put on a great show for the ceremony: