Former Gower College Swansea student Shannon Jade has been given an Access to Higher Education Award by Agored Cymru for her Outstanding Academic Achievement.
Shannon, who completed an Access to Psychology and Counselling course at the Tycoch Campus before commencing a Degree in Sociology at Swansea University, was given her award by Darren Howells, CEO of Agored Cymru, and Victor Morgan, Agored’s Access to Higher Education Manager.
“During her College studies, Shannon achieved an incredible 45 Distinctions across all her subjects with her academic work consistently demonstrating depth, clarity and critical insight,” says Learning Area Manager, Rhian Pardoe. “This was particularly evident in her extended project and her assignment on perspectives in sociology.
“But beyond the marks and the grades, Shannon brought something truly special to the classroom – a genuine warmth, a readiness to support her peers and a resilience that carried her through personal challenges without ever compromising the quality of her work.”
“We are incredibly proud of Shannon,” adds Gower College Swansea Principal, Kelly Fountain. “This award is not only a recognition of her outstanding academic ability but of her character, her determination, and the bright future she is so clearly building. She is a role model in every sense of the word, combining academic excellence with kindness, humour, and a deep commitment to learning. Her tutors, lecturers and fellow learners have all spoken so highly of her and it’s clear that Shannon’s impact goes far beyond her own achievements – she has lifted others up along the way.”
“I’m really delighted to have won this award,” says Shannon. “It was such a privilege to be able to study at this stage in my life, especially as I left school at 16 and didn’t think I was particularly academic. But I really loved College, the teaching staff were phenomenal, and the experience has given me so much confidence and has opened up so many opportunities for me and my family.”
“It was a privilege to present Shannon with this award, as it is fitting recognition of her academic proficiency and her passion and drive to achieve her future aspirations,” says Darren Howells. “Achieving 45 distinctions is remarkable and is only seen in 3% of all Access to HE students in the UK.
“Recognition should also be given to Shannon’s family, friends, peers and, of course, the wonderful staff at the College for their support and encouragement. We are all very proud of Shannon at Agored Cymru and we look forward to watching her progress on her Degree course in Swansea University.”
Agored Cymru has over 30 years’ experience of offering Access to HE Diplomas. In that time, they have created life-changing opportunities and enabled thousands of learners to progress into Higher Education.