The academic excellence of a Loughborough College degree student has been honoured with a prestigious accolade.
Lewis Jenkins was presented with The Dean’s Award from the University of Derby in recognition of producing work of the highest standard.
The 26 year old, who is studying for a degree in Children’s and Young People’s Services with Loughborough College while working as a teaching assistant at a local primary school, admits he was shocked when he received a gold envelope containing news of his achievement.
“I am passionate about what I do. I worked in early years education for eight years and have been a teaching assistant since I started studying for my degree with the College. I work hard because I love it – receiving that acknowledgement was a surprise but amazing too. My parents came with me to the ceremony and they were very proud.
“Loughborough College and my tutors Gaynor and Louise have been incredible. They are always there for me academically and with general support. I am in a great class too – we all help each other out. The degree has been fantastic for giving me a new insight into education and it’s really enhanced what I do.
“I began my working life in pre-school and now I am at Booth Wood Primary in Loughborough there is constant variation with different year groups and classes. It certainly keeps me on my toes and it’s brilliant to see the children’s development as they progress. This definitely where I want to be with my career.”
Loughborough College Early Years Education lecturer Gaynor Rice added: “Lewis has excelled in his studies and truly deserves this award. He has shown 100% commitment, really getting stuck into his work and always giving it his best. He is happy to be challenged and takes on board every piece of feedback, making outstanding progress and achieving brilliant results.
“It Is a pleasure to see how much he enjoys his course and his work in a local primary, where he is very highly regarded. He’s a real team player in college and his classmates are so pleased for him. We are all very proud of Lewis and have no doubt he will one day make an excellent teacher.”
Pictured: Loughborough College degree student Lewis Jenkins after being presented with the prestigious Dean’s Award from the University of Derby