Bridgwater & Taunton College A Level student Joseph Pittard has been awarded the highly esteemed John Biffen award. In conjunction with Old Morganians, this award recognises the outstanding academic achievements of a Bridgwater & Taunton College student in memory of the former cabinet minister.
The John Biffen Award was established in 2008 in the memory of Lord John Biffen who has dedicated his life’s work to being a Conservative Cabinet Minister by his former students at Dr.Morgan’s Grammar School (now known as Haygrove School). The award is presented to a History, Politics or Economics student as a recognition for excellence and incredible dedication throughout their studies. The award winners receive a £100 cheque and a copy of Lord Biffen’s autobiography.
John Biffen was born in Cannington close by to Bridgwater, he earned a scholarship at the University of Cambridge and successfully graduated in History with a First-class Honours degree. From this, he went onto to be appointed as a MP for Oswestry where he served the area for more than 35 years, holding high offices in Margaret Thatcher’s administration. In 1997, he was granted the title of Lord Tanat.
Joseph Pittard studied A Level Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography and achieved A*AAA before moving onto the University of Bath to study Politics and International Relations.
Bill King, Old Morganians’ Representative said,
I’ve been fortunate enough to attend these ceremonies over the past few years, and it is incredible to see how BTC students can excel in these subjects. Looking at Joe’s achievements, it amazes me how he found the time to fulfil so many academic accomplishments.
Joseph Pittard, Award Winner said,
I’m so thankful to BTC for recognising me for this award, it’s an incredible feeling! Their support over my two years of study has helped me succeed.
Matthew Smith, Course Leader for A Levels said,
Joe was an exemplary A Level student, who consistently demonstrated a calm and mature approach to his studies. He was the outstanding candidate to be the thirteenth recipient of this prestigious award. BTC are greatly proud of Joseph’s achievements whilst here and we wish him the best of luck for the future.
Karen Crowley, Course Leader for A Levels said,
Joe enrolled at BTC into A Levels in September 2020, and I had the great pleasure of teaching him Politics and mentoring him for Honours Academy and Pathway programmes during two years here. From the beginning, Joe showed an exemplary standard in his studies. Not only did Joe have the added challenge of learning during a pandemic, but he also took on an additional A Level and achieved A*AAA. Joe embodied BTC values and was very involved in the community. During his time, he was involved in an Erasmus programme, the Wells Cathedral Sixth Form conference and participated in the Holocaust Educational Trust’s ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ series. I am extremely proud of Joe, and so honoured to be part of his learning journey. His lecturers at Bath are extremely lucky to have him. I cannot wait to hear about Joe’s future adventure.
If you want to know more about studying A Levels at Bridgwater & Taunton College, please contact our Information & Advice team on 01278 441234 or visit our website www.btc.ac.uk.
