We are thrilled to announce that Reanna Chambers, an inspirational hairdressing graduate from Nescot (North East Surrey College of Technology) received the Adult Student of the Year Award at the AoC (Association of Colleges) Annual Conference and Exhibition in Birmingham yesterday (18.11.25). The AoC Student of the Year Awards 2025/26 winners announced at a glittering ceremony, celebrate exceptional students from colleges across the country. Reanna from Nescot was one of only two finalists selected for the Adult Student of the Year Award (19+) sponsored by Gateway Qualifications.

Nescot hairdressing graduate, Reanna’s remarkable journey from minimal schooling to both academic and personal success, is a testament to her resilience and transformation. Originating from the traveller community with limited formal education, she left school without qualifications. She courageously pursued education at 16, enrolling in a hairdressing course at Nescot and rapidly progressing to Level 3, achieving distinctions throughout, while also passing GCSE English and Maths.

Reanna’s impact also extends beyond the classroom, where she has led annual charitable drives for the Salvation Army at college, volunteered at the college’s pop-up hair and beauty salon to pamper children undergoing chemotherapy at The Royal Marsden, and championed sustainability through her leadership in joining the Green Salon Collective initiative at college. Her personal transformation, from a quiet, uncertain teenager to a confident leader, has inspired both peers and staff.

Julie Kapsalis, Nescot Principal and CEO, commented:

“Congratulations and well done to Reanna, we are all immensely proud of her, and of her exceptional achievements at Nescot. She is an inspirational role model, an incredible hairdresser with great technical skills, and kind and empathetic with a natural curiosity for self-improvement through education. Thanks to our fantastic hairdressing team for supporting Reanna on her remarkable journey.”

Speaking before the Awards ceremony, Reanna Chambers, AoC Adult Student of the Year winner and Nescot hairdressing graduate said:

“I’m most proud of what I’ve achieved coming to Nescot. It has been an incredible journey of personal growth, from having no GCSEs to gaining formal qualifications, and I’m so thankful to everyone who has helped me along the way. I have grown in confidence and self-belief, which has encouraged me to aim for opportunities that I wouldn’t have ever imagined. It has changed my life and I’m so grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve had from my tutors and the college.

“It’s been a positive experience and so wonderful to share this achievement with my family who are all so happy for me. I’m honoured to be an inspiration to others in my community who are taking similar steps. I would encourage anyone who feels as though they don’t have a chance to just try, you’re not losing out on anything, you’ve got so much to gain. You’ll get there, and it’ll be amazing!”

Lisa Charles, award winning Nescot hairdressing lecturer and Reanna’s tutor added:

“Reanna is a true inspiration and we are all beyond proud of her. Throughout her time at Nescot, she has shown outstanding determination and dedication. She has whole heartedly embraced every opportunity that has come her way, from coursework to participating in volunteering initiatives. I am confident that her compassion, dedication and amazing work ethic, will enable her to achieve many more milestones. We wish her all the very best!”

Kathryn Stephen, Nescot Vice-Principal, Curriculum, said:

“Reanna’s journey represents the very essence of adult learning, through her courage to change and her strong resolve to succeed in her education despite challenges. Her professionalism, maturity and commitment shine through in everything that she does. Reanna is a role model of what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.”

The AoC Student of the Year awards celebrate achievements, resilience, and contributions from students across the country. For more information on the awards visit the AoC website here.

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