Five Borders College students and staff took home ALBAS awards

The event serves to celebrate excellence in the country’s land-based and aquaculture sectors, shining a light on the achievements of learners, apprentices and mentors.

Beth Millar, from Jedburgh, was named Agriculture Learner of the Year and Modern Apprentice of the Year.

The SVQ mixed farming student was also named the overall runner-up at the award ceremony.

Hailey Anderson, from Duns, took home the Tam Tod Trophy and was chosen as runner-up in the Game and Wildlife Learner of the Year category.

In Kelso, Maya Lowe came second place in the Horticulture Learner of the Year category.

The final student to boast success was Bex Chirnside, from Galashiels, who was named runner-up in the Higher Education HNC Learner of the Year section.

For staff, horticulture lecturer Nigel Gibb took home the second place prize for Carstairs Award for Mentoring.

Alex Reynolds, head of sector for land-based and rural skills at Borders College, said: “We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students and staff at this year’s ALBAS Awards.

“To see our learners recognised at a national level is a fantastic reflection of their hard work, dedication and passion for the land-based sector.

“Beth Hailey, Maya and Bex have all demonstrated outstanding commitment to developing their skills while working in industry, and Nigel’s recognition highlights the impact that inspirational teaching and mentoring can have on the next generation.

“These results are a real credit to the individuals involved and to the strong partnerships we have with employers across the region.”