Stafford College Higher Education student, makes the finals of the Association of Colleges Student of the Year Awards.

Courtney was nominated in the 'Higher Education Student of the Year' category, and although he was pipped to the post, to get this far is an incredible achievement in itself.

Commenting on Courtney's achievements, Curriculum Leader for Higher Education Sport, Jack Bullock said:"We’re incredibly proud of Courtney for making it to the final three and for his place as a worthy runner-up. An affable, warm and funny character, his personal commitment to working hard to study alongside his role as a dutiful father illustrates the kind of person he is. When you coincide those personal attributes with the kind of work ethic that has seen him thrive in coaching jobs at professional football clubs and teaching in a high school while developing his academic skills to ensure consistent, first-class grades on his degree then this kind of recognition is exactly what he should receive. I’m sure Courtney would be the first to recognise, too, the sterling work of our degree teaching team and it’s great that their hard work is once again recognised nationally alongside such prestigious student success.

Jack added, "During his time with us, Courtney acted as a fundamental bridge between lecturers and students. His maturity as a person often meant that he was the student involved to help implement the objectives of lecturers inside and outside of lessons, and as the main communication point between lecturers and his fellow students. Courtney balanced all of this while being father to three young children, which underpins and showcases his dedication in achieving what he has done academically during his studies."

Alongside his commitments to a full time degree course, Courtney also worked at Codsall High School, providing tutoring and leadership for young people with whom, he shares an amazing professional relationship. Courtney also found the time to lead a football academy in the centre of Birmingham, catering for hundreds of children stretching across all age groups, which is further testament to his passion and love for teaching, coaching and leading young people.

Courtney is now studying for a Physical Education and Youth Sport Coaching 'top-up' degree at Staffordshire University, and works for Burton Albion Football Club as a Lead Coach in their Academy and is still working at Codsall High School as a Trainee Teacher.