A STUDENT from St Mary's Catholic College has been crowned 'Performing Arts Student of the Year' at the Pearson BTEC Awards.

Daniel Regan received the accolade in recognition of his achievement in the subject and travelled to Central Hall Westminster in London to collect his prize on Thursday, July 5.

During his time at the school Daniel has taken on lead roles in productions and performed at the Lowry Theatre.

In October 2017 Daniel was chosen as one of 12 boys from across the UK to take part in Frantic Assembly's Ignition project.

He told the Globe: “I am delighted to have won this award.

"Studying BTEC Performing Arts has provided opportunities for me to develop skills that have enabled me to participate in a wide range of professional acting experiences.

"The BTEC courses focus on vocational proficiencies has prepared me for my chosen career path and I am determined to follow my dreams of being a successful professional actor and hope that this achievement will stand me in good stead for the future.”

With 24 categories, the eighth annual Pearson BTEC Awards were hosted by financial journalist and TV presenter Steph McGovern, and showcased the fantastic contributions made by students and young people studying for BTECs.

President of Pearson in the UK Rod Bristow said: “I want to offer my congratulations to Daniel for winning this award.

"The judges were hugely impressed by the quality of nominations this year and this is a fantastic achievement.

“The BTEC Awards are one of my favourite events of the year.

"They are a wonderful celebration, not just of the outstanding winners themselves, but of the value of the BTEC qualification to employers and universities around the world.”

The ceremony was attended by the winners, their families and teachers as well as leading stakeholders from the education and business worlds.

Ciara McCallion from St Mary's Catholic College added: “Daniel is an exemplary student and member of our school community.

"His passion, achievements and commitment both in and outside the classroom are truly inspirational.

"This award is a testament to his character, his natural ability as a performer and the challenges that he has overcome.

"As a school we are so proud of Daniel and we hope that this award is another accolade on his journey to becoming an established actor.”