KILWINNING student Thomas Graham has been recognised at this year’s Scottish Mentoring Network Awards, while his college also picked up a top gong.

The 27-year-old Ayrshire College student was recognised as a Commended Mentor for supporting a full class of supported learning students every week.

Thomas, who is a DJ, encouraged the students to sing and perform, which culminated in a show being performed in the college’s lecture theatre.

He is currently in his third year of mentoring at Ayrshire College, supporting students with ICT skills.

Lesley Todd, an Inclusive Learning Officer at Ayrshire College, said: “Thomas’s dedication and commitment to the programme has been outstanding. He has been an exemplary peer mentor.”

The college’s Peer Mentoring project was also a joint winner of the Disability and Health Project of the Year award.

The project is a partnership between the Health and Social Care and Inclusive Learning teams at Ayrshire College.

The project has expanded to be carried out across all Ayrshire College campuses.

Lesley and Karima Audish, a computing lecturer, represented the college in accepting their award, which recognises the success of its HNC Social Care students in enhancing the learning experience of students with additional support needs.

Christine Hutchison, Curriculum Manager for Health and Social Care at Ayrshire College, added: “The work I witnessed through the Peer Mentoring project was special.

“Seeing the students singing on stage made the hairs on the back of my neck rise, and watching Thomas’ patience and pride was a wonderful moment.”

The Social Care students train as Peer Mentors and then volunteer to mentor students in access level courses.

Students with dyslexia, mental health challenges and physical health needs are assisted through the project.

This is the third successive year that Ayrshire College has picked up an award for its Peer Mentoring project. This year the award was won jointly by The National Autistic Society Scotland.