Newcastle College students have celebrated their achievements at this year’s HITZ graduation ceremony, recognising the progress, dedication and personal development of learners across the programme.
The celebration brought together Level 1 and Level 2 Sport and Protective Services students who have completed the HITZ programme this year, alongside staff and partners from Newcastle Rugby Foundation.
Delivered in partnership with the Foundation, HITZ is designed to support young people in developing confidence, resilience, personal skills and employability, helping learners move closer towards further education, training and employment opportunities.
Alongside celebrating the achievements of the full cohort, a number of learners were recognised with special awards for their individual contributions and personal journeys throughout the year.
The award winners were:
· Outstanding Personal Development: Robyn Kirton Grunhut
· Overcoming Adversity: Jjay Rider
· Outstanding Volunteer of the Year: Tom Hopkins
· Outstanding Coach of the Year: Frazer Ketchen
David Shotton, Social Inclusion Manager at Newcastle Rugby Foundation, said:
“The partnership with Newcastle College works because the College genuinely listens to young people and understands what they need. HITZ is about far more than what happens in the classroom or through sport - it’s about supporting learners as individuals, helping them build confidence, overcome challenges and feel safe, supported and valued. That’s what makes this partnership so important to us.”
John Gibson, Head of Curriculum for Sports, Law, Policing and Protective Services at Newcastle College, said:
“When we launched HITZ five years ago, we started with just 10 students. This year we’ve supported close to 150 learners, and next year we’re expecting that to grow to around 250. The programme gives young people the opportunity to build resilience, confidence and strong relationships with people who genuinely care about helping them succeed, both inside and outside the classroom.”
Robyn Kirton Grunhut, winner of the Outstanding Personal Development award, added:
“It feels really good to have won an award, especially considering where I’ve come from. HITZ has really helped me build my confidence and form friendships, and it’s been a great experience. I came from quite a dark place with my mental health, so to now feel happy with myself again is amazing.”
The HITZ programme has continued to grow significantly in recent years, expanding from just 10 students five years ago to an expected intake of up to 250 learners for the next programme.
The growth reflects the continued success of the partnership between Newcastle College and Newcastle Rugby Foundation, and the positive impact the programme is having on young people across the North East.
The graduation ceremony marked an important milestone for learners, celebrating not only academic progress, but also the confidence, determination and personal growth developed throughout the programme.