Top performing students from across the four college campuses were rewarded for their efforts as a total of 31 accolades were handed out at a ceremony on Rope Walk in Ipswich.
They included a clutch of awards for students on land-related courses at the Suffolk Rural campus.
Ethan Scott, 16, from Great Finborough near Stowmarket, won the horticulture student of the year award. On gaining this award he said: “I like being outdoors. I enjoy learning new skills and I want to have my own landscaping company in the future. I was shocked (to win).”
Sofia Circelli, 20, from Kesgrave received the top floristry prize. She said: “It’s been really good at college. Really enjoyable. I like floristry because of the reactions you get (to my work). Winning the award was a boost to my confidence.”
Antoinette Fox, 20, from Ipswich won the animal studies learner of the year. She said: “I like how I have developed since I started. Next for me is university where I will study wildlife and ecology. Winning this award means a lot.”
Chloe Attridge from Stanton near Bury St Edmunds won the equine learner of the year prize. She said: “It was a great honour to win.”
And Alfie Scott – who was unable to attend – was crowned farming student of the year.
The 19-year-old from Ipswich, who is studying for an agricultural engineering T Level, said: “There is a sense of community [in farming]. I was honestly quite surprised [to win]. Hopefully this will help me in the future.”
During his speech, Suffolk New College principal and chief executive officer Alan Pease reflected on last week’s visit by the prime minister to the college, and he also outlined recent developments including the creation of an upgraded animal centre, and news of a new campus building in Leiston.
He said: “We recently had the distinct honour of hosting the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer. His words of praise for our college community – and especially our learners – was truly uplifting.
“During these awards, we carry that same spirit of pride and celebration as we reflect on the incredible and inspirational accomplishments that our students have made in what has been a truly outstanding year.”
All winners received prizes or cash worth up to £150, a goodie bag and a certificate.
