Celebrating Success 2026: Foundation Learning Student of the Year – Tyler Read
I am very proud of myself and can’t believe I won and now have a job as an apprentice at Essex County Council!
Celebrating Success 2026: ESOL Student of the Year – Ebuzer Akdogan
Honestly, I can’t explain, I’m so excited and happy. This is my first award and it’s been so hard for me. I study in Basildon and the most important thing is English. I have to improve my English; it’s a life rule for me. I’m originally from Turkey and I’m most proud of winning this award. I would 100% recommend the college. When I go into the classroom, I feel confident in myself and that’s because of the tutors.
Celebrating Success 2026: Engineering Student of the Year – Alfie Kent
I wasn’t expecting the award, but I’m very happy. I enjoy that you always get to learn something new, and marine engineering is such a vast industry and getting to see all the different parts of it is great. Go for it; there are lots of opportunities, not just in engineering but in leisure and cruise ships too. I want to be a marine engineer in the leisure industry, working on superyachts.
Celebrating Success 2026: Construction Student of the Year - Ronnie Cooper
I enjoyed everything. It was well organised and has prepared me for my career and the real world.
Celebrating Success 2026: Building Services Student of the Year - Vinnie Sweetingham
The course has made me confident in what I want to do. I’d definitely recommend it as a starting point into plumbing. I want to be self‑employed as a plumber and follow in my grandad’s footsteps.
Celebrating Success 2026: Apprentice of the Year – Tomas Agg
Motor Vehicle Services and Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle) Apprenticeship Level 3
It was the only college in the area offering motor vehicle courses, which really appealed to me, especially with the excellent facilities. What I enjoy most is that the staff are incredibly helpful, the workshops are well equipped, and the tutors are extremely knowledgeable. I love that it’s a hands‑on course.
Joe Coward
Level 3 Maritime Engineering Technician apprenticeship
My time at college has given me the opportunity to learn essential skills to be able to work in the maritime industry. I feel like I can take my knowledge straight into the workplace, and develop them further.
Finley Wallis
T Level in Digital Support Services
I really enjoyed my time at SECG. The facilities, campus and supportive environment all made a difference. Once I knew IT was the right path for me, I was glad I had chosen a specialist course close to home. I also made some great friends along the way, and I’m still in touch with many of them.