Education Minister Carol Steere (front, centre) with College of FE students at last night’s Student of the Year ceremony. Left to right (back): Matt Sawbridge, Jade Merrien, Student of the Year winner Reece Quesnel, Wayne Ogier, Miffy Lane and Daniel Gallienne. Left to right (front): Matt Elliott, Carol Steere and William Konken. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0592692)

A SUPER-helpful computer whizz has been named the 2008 College of Further Education Student of the Year.

Reece Quesnel, a 17-year-old BTec first diploma for IT student, said he was shocked to be selected from the eight nominees to be presented the award by Education Minister Carol Steere at a service in the college restaurant last night.

‘I was so surprised when I received it. It feels excellent and it’s a real boost to my confidence,’ he said. Principal Trevor Wakefield said that, as a schoolboy, Mr Quesnel had not been able to bring himself to attend lessons because of bullying but at college he missed only one day in two years.

‘Reece has given great support to those around him and has really developed academically and personally,’ he said. ‘He has even pioneered a group which install computers in senior retirement homes in order to help residents keep in touch with their families.’