TWO Barnsley College students are on the shortlist for the prestigious national Student of the Year Awards.

The awards, run by the Association of Colleges (AoC), celebrate ‘truly unique’ students whose efforts inspire and positively impact their college and community.

Tom Ashforth is shortlisted for Young Student of the Year and Chloe Hutchinson for the Student Green Commitment Award.

Tom has been recognised for his work as Disabilities Officer on the Students’ Union Committee, his volunteer work with the Thomas Pocklington Trust and athletic pursuits as part of the GB Development Squad for Paracycling.

Chloe worked alongside staff at Honeywell Sports Village, as AoC Green Sports Ambassador, to replace gym equipment with environmentally-friendly alternatives – impressing Baroness Parminter on her visit last year and receiving recognition at the College’s Excellence Awards.

Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive David Akeroyd said: “To have two students shortlisted at the Student of the Year Awards is testament to each of their individual brilliance, and to the efforts of everyone at college to allow all of our students to flourish.

“The achievements of Tom and Chloe are exceptional, showing not only academic excellence, but an appreciation of how their work in College ties into the wider community and vice versa.

“At Barnsley College, we are committed to encouraging students to make their ideas and ambitions possible. Tom and Chloe are two such students who have seized their opportunities and been rightfully recognised for their hard work, commitment, attitude and vision.”