We’re marking the end of term by recognising student progress, resilience and engagement with the introduction of Wiltshire College & University Centre’s new PACE Awards, with the first winners being recognised across campuses this week.
What are the PACE Awards?
PACE stands for Progress, Attendance, Commitment and Engagement. The awards are delivered on a quarterly basis and are designed to recognise students from across campuses and curriculum areas.
Rather than focusing only on grades or outcomes, the PACE Awards celebrate the effort, determination and positive attitudes students show throughout the term.
Winners receive a certificate and a Starbucks voucher as a thank-you for their commitment and progress.
Celebrating achievement
For students, the PACE Awards highlight the progress, commitment and engagement they demonstrate they demonstrate throughout the term.
Our winners this term are:
- Amber Cowley
- James Henderson
- Chloe Thompson
- Milly Bush
These students were recognised for the way they show up to college and keep pushing themselves throughout the term. Staff nominated those who demonstrate commitment, reliability and a positive attitude to learning – whether that’s through strong attendance, steady improvement, supporting others or giving their best effort every day.
The PACE Awards celebrate these everyday successes and the progress students make, not just results.
Could YOU be our next PACE Award winner?
If you’re making progress, showing commitment, getting involved and giving your best effort, you could be recognised in the next round of awards.
Spotlight on a PACE Award winner
Amber Cowley, 17, from Chippenham was recognised for her progress on the Beauty Therapy course at the College’s Chippenham campus, having shown consistent development in her practical skills, growing confidence and a positive, proactive approach to learning.
Her nominator described her as a reliable and engaged student, known for her strong attendance, willingness to take on feedback and active contribution to lessons and work experience in the College’s training salons.
Amber said: “I am very honoured to be recognised – it means so much to me as it helps me realised how much I am progressing throughout my college years so far. I have been working hard to achieve me personal and academic goals, and this give me the motivation to keep striving to achieve my future career. It also helps me to maintain a positive attitude and to stay determined. This PACE Award can help me to keep focusing.”
Recognising progress that matters
Ceri Baker, our Trowbridge Executive Director, said: “The PACE Awards were created to give us a clearer, more inclusive way to recognise the progress our students make. Achievement looks different for every learner, and it’s important that we celebrate effort, resilience and commitment – not just outcomes. Ending the term by recognising students in this way sends a powerful message that their journeys are valued.”
The PACE Awards will continue to be delivered throughout the academic year, giving more students the opportunity to be recognised for their progress, engagement and commitment to learning.
Good to Know
Any student can be nominated. The awards recognise progress, attendance, commitment and engagement, whatever your starting point or course.
No – students are nominated by staff who recognise the effort and progress you’re making.
No. PACE recognises a wider range of things, including improvement over time, positive attitude, getting involved, resilience and commitment to learning.
PACE Award winners receive a certificate and a small reward, as well as recognition from staff and the College.
The next round of PACE Awards will be around the end of next term.
