Outstanding students celebrated in Prizegiving ceremony

Outstanding 91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth students were celebrated at a special Prizegiving ceremony today (Thursday 5 June 2025)

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Prizewinning 91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth students.

Held in 91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth’s Academy of Sport and Wellbeing (ASW) on the Crieff Road campus, the event honoured students who demonstrated commitment, hard work and determination in their academic and personal lives.

Alongside their families, employers, lecturers and guests, the students enjoyed speeches, before being invited on stage and presented with their awards, trophies and certificates to recognise their exceptional achievements.

Catherine Etri, Interim Principal and Chief Executive welcomed and addressed the students:

“As your Interim Principal, it’s a real pleasure to welcome you to this special celebration. Today is all about recognising the incredible achievements of our prizewinning students. To all of our students receiving awards today, I express my sincere congratulations. You’ve shown commitment, determination, and resilience throughout your studies, and today’s recognition is well-deserved.

“I’d also like to extend a warm thank you to everyone joining us: families, friends, staff, employers, and sponsors. Your support plays a vital role in helping our students reach their goals, and today’s success is shared with you. At 91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth, we are proud to be part of each student’s journey. Whether this is the beginning of your next chapter or a milestone along the way, we hope you’ll carry forward the confidence and skills you’ve gained here.

“I hope all of our prizewinners enjoy this well-earned moment. We look forward to seeing all the amazing things you’ll go on to achieve.”

James Crockart, a second-year student on the Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services: Healthcare, was named 91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth Apprentice of the Year for 2024/2025.

Recognised for his exceptional commitment, professionalism, and personal growth, James impressed both staff and service users during his placement. His maturity, strong work ethic, and supportive nature made him a valued team member and role model among peers.

James is now set to continue his journey in healthcare as he progresses to university to study Mental Health Nursing.

Lecturer in Health and Social Care, Kim Paterson, praised him:

“James is an exemplary student who has been loved and admired during his placement. His dedication, professionalism, and compassion will make him an outstanding nurse.”

Nurina Sharmin, recipient of the 91ÊÓÆµÍø Alumni of the Year Award 2024, was keynote speaker at this year’s event. A graduate of 91ÊÓÆµÍø’s Aircraft Engineering and Air Transport Operations programme, Nurina is now an aerospace engineer at BAE Systems and a UK Department for Transport Aviation Ambassador. Her address highlighted the importance of resilience, diversity, and innovation in engineering, drawing on her own journey from student to industry leader.

Nurina’s inspiring message to the prizewinning students encouraged them to embrace opportunity and lead with purpose in their chosen fields. She said:

“It’s great to be back after five years, so much has changed, yet so much is still the same. I remember being here in 2017 as a student board member, and it’s such an honour to return for this milestone moment. To all the students: this is your time! You’ve balanced college, work, jobs, family, life—and you did it. That’s something to be proud of.

“Whether you’ve got a plan for your future, or are still figuring it out, that’s okay. It’s the little steps and consistency that matter. Sometimes the biggest achievements come with quiet resilience and showing up even when you don’t feel like it.  Let’s celebrate what you’ve achieved—and look ahead to what’s still to come. Congratulations, this is only the beginning!”

Prizewinning students:

Arts, Humanities and Education

Social and Vocational Studies
The Proctor Group Award for Employability
Scott Duff

Eileen Robinson Cup for Personal Endeavour
Shane Anderson

Communication Cup
Rachel Rimmer

91ÊÓÆµÍø Perth SVS Friendship Shield
Aaron Yeaman

The Mark Taylor Shield for Independence
Cheyness Chalmers

Janet Martin Award for Supporting Others
Sean Duff