A very big congratulations to Renee Adu-Poku, one of our supported learning students for winning a Jack Petchey Award.
Renee has inspired all at West Thames with her resilience and determination. An exceptional student, she is predicted to finish all her classes with a Merit, the highest grade in the department. She has shown her dedication to her learning by staying behind to put in extra hours for homework and to work on additional projects. A keen performer, Renee has also competed in the Supported Learning talent show, coming second in the grand finale.
She has already secured a job at her old primary school, working in one of her favourite subjects, sports. Renee describes aiding young learners with Special Educational Needs in the P.E. department as her dream job, because she gets to help pupils like herself increase their confidence through physical activity, just like she did at West Thames College.
The Jack Petchey Achievement Award Scheme recognises outstanding young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex celebrating the achievements of students who have contributed to the college, or the local community in a significant way. Whether this be through overcoming personal adversity, volunteering to help others or showing great dedication.
As part of the award scheme, Renee received a certificate, a medal and a £300 grant which she will use to take her classmates on a trip and purchase sensory gadgets to assist students with learning difficulties. Any additional monies will be used to buy equipment for the three primary curriculum areas of; Business and administration; horticulture; and catering and hospitality.
Shelby Styles-Graham, current Teaching Assistant says "It has been an incredible pleasure working with such a great girl, her determination and work ethic is outstanding - not to mention her amazing dance skills."
Read more about our Supported Learning provision.
