Priestley College Prospectus 2018 54351 Priestley Prospectus 2018 | Page 67

A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT Priestley College proudly celebrates the achievements of its departing second year students every year. It is one of the highlights of the college calendar and in 2017 we were honoured to welcome Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey to be our guest speaker. Former Priestley student soprano Erin Alexander gave two stirring performances on the evening that reduced some to tears. Soprano Erin Alexander in full voice during her performance. Dame Sarah – who has won 25 Paralympic medals – handed out prizes to students for academic achievements and endeavour. During a speech to those gathered at St Elphin’s Church she said: “Congratulations to everyone here this evening receiving their awards. “It is very inspiring to hear of your hard work and resilience in overcoming challenges and hurdles to get where you are today.” The awards evening is a final send off for students and an opportunity for them to say their goodbyes to tutors who have guided them through two years of study. They recognise academic achievements as well as the successes of those who have overcome personal difficulties including homelessness and serious health issues. Solvay, Warrington Wolves and the town’s mayor were among those who sponsored awards in 2017. Priestley alumna Holly Roach and Director of Student Services Fran Evans. Sophie Burrows with her former Dance tutor Rachel Edgington. Sarah Storey with Lydia King and Emma Burn. Senior Tutor Tracie Gibbons with student William Mansfield-Hickman. www.priestley.ac.uk 01925 415415