National awards success at AoC Student of the Year Awards

Barnsley College is celebrating two winners and a runner-up in the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards 2026/27, recognising three students whose achievements are making a difference to others.

Katie Cherry won Apprentice of the Year and Ben Burke won the Student Green Commitment Award, while Eduard Cristea was named a runner-up in the Young Student of the Year category. The results were announced at the AoC Annual Conference and Exhibition in Birmingham.

The national awards celebrate exceptional students from colleges across England, recognising their achievements and contributions to their colleges and communities.

Katie, a Level 3 Content Creator Apprentice working at Age UK Barnsley, has used her creativity to help the charity reach new audiences and raise awareness of issues affecting older people. Her video featuring 96-year-old service user Raymond attracted more than 140,000 views and led to BBC Breakfast coverage, highlighting the impact of loneliness.

Katie said: “It was amazing to represent Barnsley College and my hometown, and I’d like to send my congratulations to all the finalists and winners.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me over the last 18 months, from my tutors and college staff to my colleagues at Age UK Barnsley.

“I’m incredibly proud of myself, and it still feels a little surreal. To have my hard work, dedication and achievements recognised in this way means so much, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had throughout my apprenticeship.”

Katie added she is looking forward to going on to a Level 6 Marketing Manager Apprenticeship.

Ben said: “I wanted to get students talking about the devices we use, what happens when we throw them away and how we can make more sustainable choices.

“It’s brilliant to have that work recognised with this award. I hope it encourages other students to speak up about the things they care about and get involved.”

Software Development T Level student Ben championed digital sustainability through his role as Students’ Union Sustainability Officer. His E-Waste Aware event encouraged students to consider the environmental impact of technology and how to dispose of unwanted electronics responsibly.

He also surveyed students about artificial intelligence and digital sustainability, producing a report to help inform the College’s approach to these issues.

Eduard, a Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services student and the Students’ Union’s Activities and Welfare Officer, has drawn on his experience of surviving childhood leukaemia to support others. He raised nearly £1,000 for Blood Cancer UK while championing student wellbeing, helping fellow students access support and representing their views within the College and wider community.