Falmouth Marine School has celebrated the success of its students at its annual Promise Awards ceremony.

Bringing together all departments, the awards recognise the achievements, endeavours and progress of students who were nominated by their course tutors. Each winner received a cash prize of £25 and their award.

Marine science degree student Ben Lowe, who was given a Promise Award for Achievement, said: “I’m very proud to receive the award. It was a complete surprise as everyone works extremely hard on my course. I have been a house-husband for the past eight years and now the children are older I can spend some time focusing on myself.”

Course tutor, Duncan Jones, said: “Ben is extremely committed to his studies. He demonstrates great enthusiasm and spends a great deal of his time reading around the subject outside of his lectures and assignment work. This extra dedication is reflected in work he produces and the high grades he achieves.”

Natalie Hamill, who is also studying marine science, was presented with the Promise Award for Endeavour and said: “It’s nice to know that everything you are doing gets recognised by the college.

“Last summer I volunteered at the Dolphin Research Centre (DRC) in Florida for five weeks and they have asked me to return this summer. My course at Falmouth Marine School really prepared me for the position at DRC.

I didn’t want to leave Cornwall to study for my degree especially when I live in one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, but since being here the course as provided so many opportunities both locally and globally.”

Debbie Wilshire, head of college and deputy CEO, said: “We are incredibly proud of all our students and like to celebrate and highlight their success and achievements, both during and after their time with us. These awards are a great way to acknowledge their contribution - congratulations to all of our nominees and winners.”