The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A former Spalding Grammar School student has received a top academic award following his first year at university.
Sam Nickels’ outstanding achievement in chemistry at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh has been recognised with a Deputy Principal’s Award.
The award, from Professor John Sawkins, is given to students who achieve Grade A, or equivalent, in six or more courses studied as part of their undergraduate degree programme during an academic year.
Sam (19) said: “I found university life a lot different to the environment at school, as most of the learning that you do is independent, but thanks to the skills I acquired at SGS I was able to adapt quickly and commit myself to this different way of learning.
“I’m thrilled to receive this award as it shows that all my hard work throughout the year, and my education as a whole, is paying off.”
The school’s director of sixth form studies, Adriana Leadbeater, who taught Sam chemistry at A-Level, said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for Sam and I’m delighted for him.
“He was a very enthusiastic and resilient student and took every opportunity to succeed.”
Sam says that he eventually hopes to go into research for renewable fuels and energy resources.
Sam Nickels.
