Ascentis Access to HE Excellence Awards Winners 2024-25

Access to Higher Education students often have responsibilities and commitments alongside their studies, making their educational journeys and outstanding academic achievements even more inspirational. It is important that we recognise and celebrate the hard work and determination shown by Access to HE students, whatever the circumstances.

The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a qualification that prepares students for study at degree level. It provides relevant academic subject knowledge and the opportunity to learn how to approach study at university-level. In 2022-23, over 38,000 students registered to study an Access to HE Diploma.

We had a many amazing nominations for this year's Ascentis Access to HE Excellence Awards. The nominations have been scrutinised by a panel of judges and our winners and finalists have been selected. These are:

Outstanding Academic Achievement

Learners in this category should have excelled in their academic study by producing assessed work of an outstanding quality whilst on their Access to HE course. This could include: 

• Individual achievement beyond standard expectations 
• An outstanding grade profile
• Demonstration of academic skills and techniques beyond what would normally be expected
• Evidenced academic ability likely to result in outstanding achievement in HE

Outstanding Commitment to Study

Learners in this category will have shown outstanding commitment to their Access to HE studies by evidencing some or all of the following:

• Difficult and challenging personal circumstances
• An inspirational journey which demonstrates the impact of learning
• Clear evidence of extra effort above and beyond that which would normally be required of a learner
• A demonstration of an outstanding level of commitment to study

WINNER: Nia Mack, The Growth Company

Our judge stated, "Nia is truly remarkable, demonstrating unwavering commitment and extraordinary resilience in her academic pursuits despite navigating challenging personal circumstances. Her ability to maintain high academic standards and consistently meet deadlines, even while managing significant life events and caregiving responsibilities, is a testament to her profound determination and inspiring strength. She not only excels in her studies but also embodies the transformative power of education in building a brighter future.”

FINALIST: Emma Gawthorpe, Blackpool and the Fylde College

Our judge stated, "Emma has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to personal and academic growth, achieving the Access to HE Diploma in Allied Health Professions to a high standard. She has supported others in class, actively engaged in many activities outside of her Diploma such as providing invaluable support to a SEND school that has enriched her learning even further whilst also raising six children. Emma’s dedication, despite overcoming personal barriers, reflects a high level of determination and resilience. Her progression to university is a testament to her transformative learning experience and clear potential to thrive in higher education and beyond. We look forward to hearing about her continued progress." Judge

Celebrating Success

We are thrilled to congratulate our fantastic winners! We would also like to recognise all of our nominees - your hard work truly stands out. 

Our winner will receive a cheque for £400 and our finalist will receive a cheque for £200, to help them with their future studies. All learners nominated for an award receive a Certificate of Recognition from Ascentis. We would like to thank you all once again for your nominations.