Two North Hertfordshire College students have been recognised at a prestigious regional awards ceremony for their outstanding contributions to patient care and support for local families.

Maya and Lilly, who both studied T Levels in Health: Adult Nursing at the college, which has campuses in Hitchin and Stevenage, were named finalists in the T Level Student of the Year category at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards East of England regional finals.

Maya went on to win the regional award and will now compete at the national finals in November.

The pair were nominated by their tutor, Cheryl Hall, in recognition of the difference they have made to patients and families while completing placements at local hospitals.

During her placement at Lister Hospital in Stevenage, Maya supported an impressive 189 families through the Carers Experience programme, helping relatives access information and support.

Her work has already earned her several accolades, including Volunteer of the Month in February 2025, when she helped 21 families access support in just four weeks – the highest number achieved by anyone in her team.

She was also recognised at the Heart Hertfordshire Hero Awards 2026, winning both the Future of Hertfordshire and Young Achiever awards following nominations from people who had benefited from her support.

Meanwhile, Lilly made a significant contribution to Bedford Hospital's physiotherapy team, assisting with clinics and community visits.

She also volunteered at a CPR training event, helping teach 270 local students and staff members how to perform the potentially lifesaving procedure.

Lilly may also be familiar to television viewers after appearing in the BBC series Natalie Cassidy: Caring Together, which highlighted the importance of the UK's care sector.

Both students were praised for their work as ambassadors for T Levels and vocational education, helping promote the benefits of practical, career-focused learning.

Despite studying adult nursing, both Maya and Lilly now hope to pursue careers as physiotherapists.

Cheryl Hall, deputy head of Health & Social Care at North Hertfordshire College, said:

"Congratulations, Maya and Lilly! Both of these T Level learners are so deserving of their success at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards regional finals.

"They have demonstrated a deep commitment to their studies and work on placement and have gone above and beyond to support patients and their families at our partner healthcare organisations.

"I am incredibly proud and wish them both the very best of luck for the future. Fingers crossed for Maya at the National Finals in November!"

North Hertfordshire College, which operates campuses in Hitchin and Stevenage, provides vocational courses, apprenticeships and T Levels designed to prepare students for employment and further education.

The college was graded Good with Outstanding features by Ofsted in November 2023.

Maya will now represent the East of England at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards finals in November.