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SDC Recognised Nationally at Awards

SOUTH DEVON COLLEGE automotive student Adam Simpson has beaten off competition from 575 centres nationwide to be crowned ‘Outstanding Technical Student’ at the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Learning and Skills Awards in Hertfordshire.

 WINNER: South Devon College automotive student Adam Simpson, 18, from Torquay, being awarded a national ‘Outstanding Technical Student’ award by HRH Prince Michael of Kent at the Motor Industry (IMI) Learning and Skills Awards.

Level 3 vehicle refinishing student Adam - 18, from Torquay - was presented with his award by IMI Patron HRH Prince Michael of Kent. He has recently gained employment with Colin Groom Classic Vehicle Restorers in Ipplepen. He has spent five years at South Devon College, starting on an increased flexibility programme as a 14 year old, winning student of the year in June 2010 before taking his full time Level 2 and 3 qualifications in vehicle body repair. He is continuing his studies with the College on an advanced apprenticeship in vehicle refinishing.

“We are delighted that Adam has been recognised nationally, and deservedly so” said Graham Tribble, Programme Coordinator in Automotive at South Devon College, “From his first day, Adam had a very good attitude and commitment to his studies. Striving to pursue a career in the automotive industry, he worked extremely hard to gain a good understanding of all areas. Adam has an excellent attendance and timekeeping record and even attended college on extra days to work on projects. He always demonstrates an enthusiastic approach to learning, in all areas of the subject and has demonstrated all the skills that has secured both employment and a Level 3 apprenticeship, something he has worked so hard for. This is an excellent reward for a remarkable young man.”

The South Devon College automotive centre itself also saw success at the awards, as a finalist in the ‘Centre of the Year’ category, finishing in the top 3 out of 575 centres nationally.

FINALIST: South Devon College Senior Section Head for Marine, Automotive, Computing & Engineering Steve Caunter, being awarded a national finalist certificate by HRH Prince Michael of Kent at the Motor Industry (IMI) Learning and Skills Awards.   

“This is national recognition of the high level of quality of delivery within the automotive department at South Devon College and the commitment to providing local industry support,” said Steve Caunter, Senior Section Head for Marine, Automotive, Computing & Engineering at the College, “It’s testament to the hard work staff put in to ensure these high levels are continuously met, focussing on learner development and achievement. The success of Adam Simpson exemplifies this.”

This year’s success echoes previous years at the awards, where former College student Phil Courtney won Outstanding Technical Student and South Devon College itself was awarded second place, and titled ‘Highly Commended’ in IMI Approved Centre of the Year award.

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