From media and engineering to agriculture and sport, the 2025 Wiltshire College & University Centre Student Awards celebrated students who are already shaping the future with their creativity, commitment and courage.
Out of thousands of students at the College, 21 were named winners at our 2025 Student Awards event – an incredible achievement that reflects the dedication and talent within our college community.
Nominated by staff for their hard work, progress and passion, these students represent the very best of Wiltshire College & University Centre. Here’s a little more about them.
Eliza Brindle | Creative Arts Student of the Year
At 17, Eliza Brindle from Frome is already using her art to make a statement – she was named Creative Arts Student of the Year. Studying Creative Arts at the Trowbridge campus, Eliza is passionate about feminism, body politics and representation – themes that inspire her creative work.
Reflecting on the evening, Eliza said: “I didn’t realise how big of a deal this event was until I got here – it’s awesome. It feels amazing to be recognised.”
Eliza had initially considered studying A-levels but says choosing college was the best decision she could have made. “Especially for creative subjects – you don’t get the same opportunities in school. College has been the perfect environment to grow and focus on what I really love.
“I think it’s a great option for anyone looking for something different to school – especially if you want to be creative and hands-on.”
Charlie Farmer | Media & Games Student of the Year
For 16-year-old Charlie Farmer from Melksham, studying Media at the Chippenham campus has been life-changing.
“I didn’t even know I’d been nominated until I got the email,” he said. “Then I found out I’d won, and it was amazing – I was really proud.”
Charlie has a passion for filmmaking, especially camera work and directing. “I love learning how directors influence what a film says and how it makes you feel. The staff here have let us explore what we’re interested in and really be ourselves.”
His ambition? To one day work on a big movie franchise. “That would be the dream, or anything where I get to be behind the camera, making something powerful.”
Ella Gould | Engineering Student of the Year
Chippenham-based Ella Gould, 18, was named Engineering Student of the Year after excelling in her mechanical engineering studies and securing an apprenticeship with her placement provider.
“I actually planned to do A-levels, but this route made so much more sense,” she said. “It’s been hands-on, practical and full of opportunities.”
As one of just two women on her course, Ella is a strong advocate for encouraging more women into STEM subjects. “I’d love to see more girls going into engineering. There’s still a way to go, but I do feel like we’re making progress.”
Reflecting on the awards evening, Ella said: “It felt really special. It’s been a great evening – the lights, the decorations, the atmosphere – and to be recognised like that in front of everyone, I felt proud, and it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come.”
She added: “I feel so lucky to have such a supportive environment at the College. It’s made a real difference to me.”
Calan Gilmour | Sports & Leisure Student of the Year
A swim coach, athlete and all-round sports enthusiast, 17-year-old Calan Gilmour from Chippenham was recognised for his passion and commitment as Sports & Leisure Student of the Year.
“I love sport,” he said. “I get to study it, play it and teach it – the College has made that possible.”
Calan, who studies at Lackham campus, also lives with hearing loss. He uses waterproof hearing aids that allow him to coach in the pool with Corsham Orcas swim club. “The tech helps, but it’s really been the tutors who’ve made the biggest difference. They’ve supported me in a way that works for me.”
Reflecting on the awards evening, Calan said: “It felt amazing – seeing everyone come together – I didn’t expect something so special, and to be one of the winners made it even more incredible.”
For those considering college as a next step, he advises: “Go in with your passion, whatever it is. It’s amazing what you can do when you follow it.”
George Smith | Agriculture & Land-based Student of the Year
George, 17, from Malmesbury, was named Agriculture and Land-based Student of the Year. He joined after his GCSEs and now studies at the Lackham campus, with a particular interest in regenerative agriculture.
“I’m really interested in how we can use nature to fix problems rather than cause them,” he said. “Like using certain crops to naturally suppress weeds instead of spraying chemicals.”
George says the College has helped him grow in confidence and knowledge. “Coming to Lackham has helped me understand the industry and think differently about agriculture – how we can work with nature, not against it.”
He dreams of running a mixed farm one day and says the supportive, practical learning environment at college has helped him build the skills to get there.
Although legally blind, George has never let it stop him from following his passion. “I’ve had it since birth, so I don’t really know what I’m missing. But it does make things harder. The College has been incredibly supportive though – from helping me manage my workload to making sure I have what I need to succeed. I’ve never let it stop me.”
Reflecting on the awards evening, George added: “It was a brilliant event – so well organised and a real celebration of everything we’ve achieved. I feel really proud to be part of it.”
These are just a few of the amazing student stories behind this year’s winners.
You can view highlights from the evening, the full list of winners and an event gallery here.
Or if you’re interested in joining the College, you can explore our subject areas here.
