Celebrating Student Success

            Image of a table with certificates and trophiesImage of Dave Heeley, Jan, Bev and MarkImage of a table set up with cakeImage of a table set up with bottles of water and a table sign

Friends and Family Day 2026

Thursday 9th and Friday 10th July saw the Queen Alexandra Charity mark the end of the college's academic year by celebrating their 2026 college leavers.  Four ceremonies took place over the two days for students, staff and friends and family of those who had completed their time at the College.  Each ceremony showcased a different cohort of students’ activities and learning throughout the year and each leaver was awarded with a certificate from College Principal and Charity Chief Executive, Bev Jessop.  In addition to special achievement awards for students who had been nominated and whose nominations had been judged by an independent panel, there was also The Dave Heeley Award – awarded for outstanding achievement.  The Dave Heeley Award 2026 went to Niall from Animal Care.  Everyone was delighted to have Dave join the event, not just in his role as Patron of the Charity, but also in his capacity as Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands.

Image of Dave Heeley smiling with winner Niall holding his trophy

As well as a welcome from the Chair of Trustees, Mark Abrams and the event being hosted by Deputy Principal, Jan Gormley, students made their mark at the event through each ceremony featuring a student performance  and a student speech.

One of our students, Hattie, has kindly allowed us to share her speech with you.

“Eight years ago, I was out of education and struggling to find anyone willing to give me a second chance.  I had been moved from school to school and left with only two GCSE’s and very little confidence in my future.  Then I found Queen Alexandra College, and it changed my life.

I joined QAC at 23 with only two years left on my EHCP.  I wanted to become a paramedic, but I was told by other colleges that I would never achieve a Level 3 in Healthcare and Social Care qualifications because of my difficulties, Thankfully, my tutors at QAC believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.  Today, I have achieved a Level 3 BTEC in Health and Social Care with a Merit including a Distinction in my most recent exam.

QAC has supported me through some of the hardest times in my life, including losing my grandad, managing my health and rebuilding my confidence after years away from education.  The mentoring service, my tutors, learning support assistants, classmates, support workers and family have all played a huge part in my success.

This year I became student ambassador welcoming future students and their families.  It was my way of giving something back to a college that has given me so much.

Although my dream of becoming a paramedic changed because of my health, QAC helped me find a new path.  I am now working towards becoming a children and adolescent mental health nurse, inspired by the support I have received and wanting to make a difference in other young people’s lives.”

Image of Bev Jessop and Hattie, QAC Student

Congratulations to all our 2026 leavers.