We are delighted that an inspirational learner from Nescot, Reanna Chambers has been selected as a finalist in the Adult Student of the Year category in the prestigious AoC (Association of Colleges) Student of the Year awards 2025/26.
The AoC Student of the Year awards finalists were announced this week. The awards celebrate truly unique students from AoC member colleges across England who deserve recognition and will go on to inspire others. Reanna from Nescot is one of only two finalists selected for the Adult Student of the Year Award (19+), which is 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 & CEO, said: “We are so proud of Reanna. Not only is she an incredible hairdresser with great technical skills but she is kind and empathetic with a natural curiosity for self-improvement through education. What she has achieved at college is exceptional. But above all, I am struck by her tenacity to be a voice and positive role model for women within the traveller community – deeply respecting the heritage of her family alongside being a voice and role model for the next generation. Thanks to our incredible teaching team for supporting Reanna on her remarkable journey.”
Kathryn Stephen, Nescot Vice-Principal, Curriculum, added: “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.”
Lisa Charles, award winning Nescot Hairdressing lecturer and Reanna’s tutor commented, “The teaching team are very proud of Reanna’s achievements. She has been a pleasure to teach, and has always shown dedication and motivation throughout her time at Nescot. I am confident that with her amazing work ethic, compassion and determination to succeed, she will go on to achieve even more amazing milestones. We wish her all the very best!”
Winners of the Student of the Year Awards will be announced at the AoC Annual Conference in Birmingham on 18 November.
Click here to find out more about our courses in the Nescot hair, beauty and media make-up department.
The AoC Student of the Year awards celebrate truly unique students from AoC member colleges across England who deserve recognition and will go on to inspire others. The awards show the fantastic work that students are doing in colleges as well as the lengths colleges go to support their students. These awards are an opportunity to highlight outstanding and exceptional individuals and showcase their achievements, talents, and successes. These students have gone above and beyond to give back and positively impact their college and community. Find out more about the awards finalists on the AoC website here.
