A STUDENT from Newquay has won a prestigious national award for her commitment to environmental study.

Kelsey O’Shaughnessy, who studies at Newquay University Centre, has been named the winner of the Environment, Conservation, Game and Wildlife Management (Higher Education Learner) category at the Lantra-Landex Land-Based and Environment Learner of the Year Awards (LBEL Awards) held at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham.

Kelsey, who studies the BSc (Hons) Applied Marine Zoology programme, will benefit from specialist training of her choice, generously offered on the night by Dr Mark Nason, Head of Professional Practice at the Chartered Institute of Ecological and Environmental Management.

The LBEL Awards, now in their third year, recognise student achievement across the land-based and environmental sectors.

Kelsey said: "I’m incredibly honoured and shocked to have been named the HE Learner of the Year in Environment, Conservation, Game and Wildlife Management at the national LBEL Awards.”

“This recognition is both overwhelming and deeply motivating as I begin my journey in marine science. I’m grateful to Newquay University Centre and everyone who has supported me over the past three years.

“This award marks an exciting beginning to what I hope will be a long and impactful career in the field."

Ruth Martin, head of campus at Newquay University Centre, said: “This is an outstanding personal achievement for Kelsey and a moment of real pride for everyone at Newquay.

“Her commitment to environmental study and professional practice stands out, and it’s excellent to see her recognised nationally.”

Kelsey’s success continues a pattern of recognition for Newquay University Centre. It is the second consecutive year a student from the campus has received this award, following Felicity Jones’s win in 2024. Alongside Kelsey’s achievement, fellow Newquay student Paul Reisberg also reached the national shortlist, highlighting the strength of teaching and learning across the campus.

Ruth said: “For a small university centre to achieve consecutive wins in a category often dominated by larger land-based institutions speaks to the calibre of our students and the guidance they receive. It reinforces our reputation for producing capable, confident graduates.”