Furness College Celebrates at Annual Channelside Awards Evening

Furness College celebrated the achievements of its students at the annual Channelside Student Awards Evening, recognising learners who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, resilience, academic achievement and personal development throughout the year.

Held at the Channelside campus, the event brought together students, families, friends, employers and college staff to celebrate success across a wide range of curriculum areas.

Guest speaker Paul Crarey, Head Coach of Barrow Raiders and local business owner, shared his experiences of leadership, determination and teamwork, inspiring students as they prepare for the next stage of their education, training and careers.

Awards were presented to students from across the college, including Engineering, Health, Early Years, Business, IT, Hairdressing, Hospitality and Catering, Beauty Therapy, Construction, Sport and Uniformed Services. Award recipients were selected by their tutors in recognition of their hard work, dedication and achievements throughout the academic year.

The ceremony also highlighted the vital role that employers play in supporting student success. The Employer Partner Award was presented to the Siemens Energy team in recognition of their exceptional commitment to working with Furness College and providing valuable opportunities that help students develop skills, confidence and industry experience.

Among the special awards presented on the evening was the Sarah Arnott Award for Achievement Against All Odds. Named in memory of a much-valued colleague whose determination, resilience and dedication inspired those around her, the award recognises students who have overcome significant challenges while remaining committed to their studies and future ambitions.

This year, the award was presented to two students whose determination and perseverance had inspired staff across the college. Both recipients demonstrated exceptional resilience in overcoming personal challenges while continuing to excel in their studies and make positive contributions to college life.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the prestigious Principal’s Student of the Year Award, selected by Principal Scott Cubitt. This year’s recipient was Ebony Mendez, who was recognised for her exceptional compassion, responsibility and selflessness. Alongside excelling in all aspects of her apprenticeship, Ebony has gone above and beyond in supporting a fellow student, demonstrating remarkable kindness, resilience and maturity. Her actions have had a profound impact on those around her and exemplify the values of Furness College.

Speaking after the event, Principal Scott Cubitt said:

“The Student Awards Evening is one of the most important events in our college calendar because it gives us the opportunity to celebrate not only academic success, but also the character, determination and resilience shown by our students every day.

“The standard of nominations this year was incredibly high. Our award winners have demonstrated commitment, professionalism, kindness and ambition, often overcoming significant challenges along the way. They are excellent ambassadors for Furness College and should be extremely proud of everything they have achieved. I look forward to seeing what they achieve next.”

Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners and to every student who has contributed to another successful year at Furness College.