Kira named one of the world's best agricultural students

Kira Newey was rewarded with the prestigious BTEC Award for Land-based Learner of the Year 2021, an achievement with 700 entries in total across all the award categories from 31 countries.

The 21-year-old said she was "so grateful" for the nomination and "extremely honoured and overwhelmed" to be named this year's winner.

"Gaining this award acknowledges my dedication and enthusiasm to the agricultural industry and the agricultural course and makes all my hard work much more worthwhile," Kira said.

After completing her Higher National Diploma, Kira secured a job teaching Agriculture within the Newtown College NPTC Group and a place on a Master's Programme with Aberystwyth University. Kira also farms alongside her parents, keeping award-winning pedigree Clun Forest sheep.

Her teachers said she was a pleasure to teach, and her classmates also benefited from her dedication and passion for her subject. Very aware of the speed of change within the agricultural industry, she chose to study a BTEC in order to further her knowledge and meet the challenges of farming in the 21st Century.

Head of School for Catering, Hospitality, Agriculture & Horticulture Sue Lloyd Jones was delighted to hear of Kira’s win. She said: “This is a very impressive achievement with millions across the globe studying on BTEC courses over the past year. Kira can really be proud of this accomplishment. She works very hard in her studies and as a lecturer with us at the College, always giving 100 per cent.

"Kira shows great interest in new farming techniques and knows the importance of considering old and new farming practices. All the staff offer our sincere congratulations to Kira and look forward to continuing working alongside her here at Fronlas Farm, Newtown College.”

Outstanding learners, tutors, teachers, colleges, and schools saw their achievements recognised in the 11th annual BTEC awards ceremony, held online for the second year running due to coronavirus.