The skills and innovation of University Centre Newbury (UCN) students were on full display at the first fully incorporated UCN Expo, where students had the opportunity to showcase projects that highlighted their dedication and hard work.
An annual Engineering Exhibition has been a fixture of Newbury College’s and the University Centre’s calendar for many years and is well known and respected amongst employers in engineering industries. This year marks the first time that UCN has incorporated other areas of their provision into one exposition.
Representing a variety of programmes, including Engineering, Graphic Design, Foundation Degree in Children’s Learning & Development, and Access to HE, students presented their end-of-year projects and dissertations to a distinguished audience comprised of local dignitaries, employers, and community members. The event served as a platform for the students to demonstrate their skills and creativity, shedding light on their significant contributions to local businesses.
The showcased projects, originating from an array of academic endeavours such as Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), and Degree (BEng (Hons)) programmes, showcased the students' comprehensive understanding and in-depth knowledge of their respective fields of study.
Commenting on the students’ achievements, Dr Jo Houghton, Director of Business and Partnerships at UCN, said, "We are incredibly proud of the students’ hard work, outstanding projects and exceptional teaching team. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to showcase their projects to local employers and dignitaries.”
Among the attendees were the Mayor of Newbury, Cllr Nigel Foot, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Thatcham, Cllr Mark and Jenny Lillycrop, who participated in the awards ceremony, celebrating student success across different programme areas. The ceremony, presided over by Iain Wolloff, Principal and Chief Executive of Newbury College and University Centre Newbury, honoured students with accolades such as Best Project, Dissertation, Achievement, Determination, and Progression.
UCN Award Winners
HNC Graphic Design Achievement Award – Jo Coley
HNC Graphic Design Progression Award – Gianni Falino
HND Graphic Design Determination Award – Hannah White
Foundation Degree in Children’s Development & Learning Best Dissertation – Rebecca Exley
HNC Mechanical Engineering Best Project – Richard Payne
HND Mechanical Engineering Best Project – Henry Edwards
HNC Manufacturing Engineering Best Project – Tom Ingman
HND Manufacturing Engineering Best Project – Bayley Cook
HNC Electrical and Electronic Engineering Best Project – Tara Allinson
HND Electrical and Electronic Engineering Best Project – James Davies
BEng (Hons) Engineering Design Degree Best Project – Oliver Canham
The event also provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and present trophies to our Apprenticeship Awards Winners 2023, announced during National Apprenticeship Week.
Looking to take the next step in your academic or professional journey? UCN is now accepting applications for a September start. With course offerings in Engineering, Graphic Design, Business Management, Foundation Degree in Children’s Development & Learning, and Access to HE, UCN provides a variety of avenues to pursue your career goals and achieve your degree locally.
To explore your options and learn more about how UCN can help shape your future, visit ucn.ac.uk.