11:06am Tuesday 18th July 2006
By Rachel Sharp
SCHOOLCHILDREN who have been studying subjects ranging from hairdressing to motor vehicle mechanics were rewarded for their hard work at a ceremony on July 5.
The youngsters aged 14 to 16 years, who have been studying vocational subjects at Uxbridge College as well as attending their own schools in Hillingdon, were given certificates for a host of achievements.
Star awards of HMV vouchers were given to outstanding students and pupils with the best attendance and most improved performance were also honoured.
The certificates were given out to the pupils on the School Link programme at the college's Hayes Community Campus in Coldharbour Lane.
The youngsters study towards a variety of qualifications including City and Guilds, BTEC and NVQ, in subjects including motor mechanics, hairdressing and beauty, catering, and travel and tourism.
One of the star award winners was Jade McCall, 15, who has been learning skills in hairdressing and beauty as part of an NVQ qualification and will be back next year to continue her studies.
Jade, of Northwood School, Potter Street, Northwood, was honoured for her hard work and for supporting other students.
She said: "I am very pleased about the award, I did work hard and it's been really good. I have learned loads."
Jade studied at the college's Hayes campus, where facilities include professional-standard hairdressing and beauty salons and where more senior students offer treatments to the public at low prices.
Another star winner was Jonathan Tidd, 14, who has been studying City and Guilds motor vehicle mechanics and was given the award for his excellent attitude and hard work.
Jonathan's brother Michael, now 17, also took part in School Link three years ago and went on to win a City and Guilds qualification in mechanical engineering at the college.
Jonathan's mother, Anne Tidd, said: "Jonathan has got on really well and improved so much, he has really matured and enjoyed it. Michael did well here too."
The family live in Royal Crescent, South Ruislip, and Jonathan goes to Queensmead School in Queen's Walk, South Ruislip.
Matthew Fawcett, 15, who goes to Vyners School in Warren Road, Ickenham, and has been studying motor vehicle mechanics, was presented with a certificate for increased confidence.
He said: "I have found it really good studying here I knew a bit about cars before I came but I have learned a lot more."
After the presentations, teachers, pupils and parents celebrated with a buffet prepared and served by hospitality students, who also work at public events as part of their studies.
Darrell DeSouza, Uxbridge College director 14-19 Strategy, said: "These young people have shown real commitment and maturity in their work. The scheme offers a real range of vocational subjects and opens up further study and career options for everyone who takes part. Every year many students who have taken part return to the college to build on their successes."
Around 400 children have taken part in the School Link programme this year.
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