A Cooke Scotland Seawater Assistant has been awarded Marine Science Student of the Year after graduating from university.
Stuart Lavender was honoured by UHI Shetland (University of the Highlands and Islands) for impressing his assessors with his teamwork, reliability and professionalism.
He celebrated graduating in Aquaculture Level Three during a ceremony surrounded by his colleagues and friends at the Mareel entertainment venue, Shetland, on 6 December 2024.
Mr Lavender, of Muckle Roe, Shetland, spent the last three years studying for his Aquaculture Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) at UHI Shetland. He said, “It’s a great feeling to be awarded Student of the Year. It shows that the effort you put into your work is being recognised.
“I would like to thank Cooke for giving me the opportunity to study. Excellent tutors and work colleagues also deserve a mention as they guided and helped me achieve this.”
Stuart Fitzsimmons, Head of Marine Science at UHI Shetland, said: “Stuart was an enthusiastic learner, always submitting his coursework promptly, and we were impressed at his overall teamwork. Stuart’s reliability and professionalism have left a lasting impression on his assessors, and we wish him all the best for his career in aquaculture.”
Mr Lavender joined fellow Cooke staff who were also recognised for their achievements at the graduation ceremony including: Paul Muir, Nethan Watson and Josh MacColl who all graduated with a Level Two in Aquaculture.
Vicci Laird, Head of Human Resources at Cooke Scotland, said: “Congratulations to all staff members for their achievements. As a company, we continually invest in our staff and it is fantastic to see the progress that is being made as our employees earn while they learn.
“Improving skills and knowledge in aquaculture helps us maintain a strong team who have the education and background to care for our salmon in the best way possible.”
Photograph (from left to right): Cooke Scotland team members, Paul Muir, Josh MacColl, Nethan Watson, and Marine Science Student of the Year, Stuart Lavender.