Abingdon and Witney College awards Student of the Year

Luke Payne, based at Abingdon and Witney College’s Bicester Construction Skills Centre and employed by Dorchester Living, won the top honour at the college’s 2026 Student of the Year Awards.

The event was held in July at Blenheim Palace and celebrated outstanding achievement across the college’s 11 faculties.

Mark French, Head of Bicester Construction Skills Centre, said: "Luke’s achievement is thoroughly deserved and reflects the qualities that make a great apprentice and future construction professional.

"Throughout his time at our Bicester Construction Skills Centre, he has demonstrated exceptional resilience, determination and a commitment to developing his skills to the highest standard.

"He has overcome challenges with a positive attitude, earned the respect of his peers and colleagues, and consistently led by example.

"We are incredibly proud to see Luke recognised as Abingdon & Witney College’s Overall Student of the Year and look forward to seeing what he achieves next."

Mr Payne was recognised for his 'outstanding resilience, commitment and personal growth' during his apprenticeship, overcoming personal challenges to develop into a skilled and valued Level 3 carpenter.

The annual awards celebrate just 22 students from a college community of around 12,000, selecting one inspirational student and one overall achiever from each faculty.

From this group, one is chosen as the overall student of the year. The ceremony also recognised two runners-up.

Yannick Grogan, an HR apprentice at the University of Oxford, was awarded second place for his progress, resilience and 'unwavering positivity'.

Illia Shumanskyi, a Level 3 games development student, was awarded third place for his dedication, focus and discipline.

The evening featured a performance by performing arts students and table displays created by students from the college’s Propeller programme.

Jacqui Canton, principal and chief executive of Abingdon and Witney College, said: "We are immensely proud of all those recognised this evening.

"Their success reflects not only their determination and hard work, but also the commitment of the staff who support them every step of the way.

"These awards celebrate the talent, ambition and sense of community that make our College such a special place."

Abingdon and Witney College has campuses in Abingdon, Witney, Bicester and at Common Leys Farm.

It serves around 2,000 full-time learners aged 16 to 19 and 6,500 part-time adult students each year.

The college was rated 'good' by Ofsted in 2024, with 'outstanding' features in apprenticeships, high-needs provision and behaviour and attitudes.