Sophie Kent-Ledger

BA (Hons) Education 2005 to 2008

Worked for Quarriers (National Charity)

Bath Spa University named Sophie Kent-Ledger as its 'Student Employee of the Year 2006'. Sophie, who was then in the second year of a BA (Hons) Education degree, won the award for the outstanding contribution she has made in her part-time work with Quarriers, a national charity working with vulnerable adults and children, who manage the residential respite care unit, Beaumonds, on behalf of Bath and North East Somerset Council.

For the past few years the University has run a competition to find its best 'student employee' to recognise and help promote the achievements of students who effectively combine part-time work with their study commitments.

After much deliberation of an extremely high set of entries the Bath Spa judging panel voted Sophie a unanimous winner. Sophie's part-time job with Quarriers is in a respite home for children with challenging behaviour.

David Niven, Development Manager of Quarriers, commented: "We're delighted for Sophie who is a popular and valued member of staff. As well as her colleagues, the children and families appreciate her hard work and enthusiasm.

Dr Thomas commented: "This award recognises the importance of part-time work experience for the future employability of students, as well as the valuable contribution students can make to key local employers."