AN ESPORTS and game design student who has ambitions of working in animation after originally pursuing a course in horticulture has been presented with a prestigious prize.
Alexander Weaver, 20, from Elmley Castle, has been crowned Evesham New College’s Student of the Year for 2024.
He was also recognised as Creative Arts and Media Student of the Year and was presented with both awards in a ceremony organised by college group WCG at Pershore College.
Alexander previously studied a horticulture qualification at Pershore College where he developed bricklaying and natural stone laying skills, before deciding to switch to creative media.
He was praised by tutors for his commitment in class, attendance record and being a leader among his course-mates.
Alexander said: “The event was fantastic, I got to meet a lot of people and it was a really good evening.
“My grandpa was an artist. My grandma does tapestries. My sister does art. I thought I’d join the arts profession in a different way.
“I’ve really enjoyed the modelling part of the course as it brings out my creativity.
“My tutors have been amazing and have really helped me when I’ve had hard times.”
Alexander now plans to return to Evesham New College to study graphic design and continue to develop that skill with a view to going into animating.
Andrew Brazier, Evesham New College’s head of department for creative arts and media, said: “Alexander has experienced many challenges during his time at college but every day he has persisted.
“He is a leader amongst his peers and has excelled in his work.
“He has a brilliant attendance level, applies himself in every lesson, always puts in maximum effort and is a much-deserved recipient of Student of the Year.”
Evesham New College’s awards were presented to students on a wide range of courses, including construction, creative arts and media, engineering, English, maths, beauty and motor vehicle.
Award-winning event host and BBC broadcaster Dave Sharpe was master of ceremonies on the evening and announced the award winners.
Mark Bonham, assistant principal at WCG and Evesham New College director, addressed guests at the ceremony and highlighted a range of experiences and projects carried out by students at both colleges over the last year.
