Health and social care cadets were recognised in regional awards.

The cadets, from West Cheshire College, Ellesmere Port, were congratulated for their hard work and achievements during Health Education North West’s annual cadet award ceremony hosted by Skills for Health, the skills council for health.

A group of second year students, who are known as cadets as they combine studying at college with work placements for the NHS, attended the event which included guest speakers from the NHS and Health Education England.

Student Amy Pearson, 18, won the special merit award for her achievement, commitment and excellent skills in the workplace.

She said: “Studying this course has given me a lot of experience in hospitals and provided opportunities I wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.

“I am going to the University of Nottingham in September to study adult nursing.

“I definitely think the college course gave me all of the right skills and experience to be accepted onto the degree course.

“The award came as a massive shock. I was so overwhelmed and really didn’t expect it. It’s a great end to my time at college as I know that my hard work has really paid off.”

Steph Garrett, assistant manager for health and wellbeing at the college, said: “I am so proud of all of the cadets, particularly Amy for winning the special merit award.

“With this course, students get both qualifications and work experience.

“It’s vital that students get the relevant experience as it helps them with their next steps whether it is going to university or into the workplace.

“The majority of students from the course have been offered places at the University of Salford, Edge Hill University and the University of Nottingham to undertake a range of nursing programmes including children’s nursing, mental health, general nursing and occupational therapy.

“I wish them all the best of luck for the future and I’m looking forward to hearing about their successful careers in the upcoming years.”