Lily-Mai’s win at Further Education Awards despite illness

Outstanding achievement, determination, and success took centre stage at The Baths Hall as North Lindsey College welcomed students, staff, sponsors, and guests to its annual Further Education Awards Ceremony. The event celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of learners across a wide range of subject areas, recognising those who have demonstrated excellence in their studies, overcome challenges, and made an exceptional contribution to college life throughout the year. The event began with a spectacular dance performance by Performing Arts students, who captivated the audience with an energetic
and inspiring showcase of talent. Guests then enjoyed a traditional afternoon tea while celebrating the achievements of award recipients and reflecting on another successful academic year. Awards were presented to students who had demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, personal development, commitment to their studies, and contributions to College life. The ceremony provided an opportunity to recognise, not only academic success, but also the determination and perseverance shown by students in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. Lily-Mai Proctor (Music student) won the Principal’s award as well
as the Most Inspirational Award. In early 2025, Lily was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Despite this, she has showed remarkable strength and determination, continuing to focus on her studies and completing her first-year work early so she could begin treatment. Lily-Mai commented: “It was such a special event. When I saw my name among so many deserving nominees, I never imagined I would win, let alone take home two awards. I feel incredibly proud and honoured, especially knowing that I can represent and inspire others
who have been through similar experiences.” The College extended its sincere thanks to the event sponsors, whose continued support helps recognise and celebrate student success. Sponsors for this year’s ceremony included British Steel, Aggreko, Ongo, Scunthorpe United Football Club, HITEK Electronic Materials Ltd, University Campus North Lincolnshire (UCNL), Sylvester Keal, North Lincolnshire Council, Britcon (UK) Limited, ADComms, Humberside Fire and Rescue, T.G. Sowerby Developments Limited, Scunthorpe Telegraph, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, Sadie Snowden Independent Travel, and Glanford and Lindsey Lions Club. Speaking about the event,
Danny Fenwick (Principal at DN Colleges Group) said: “The Further Education Awards Ceremony is one of the highlights of our academic calendar. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students and recognise the hard work, determination, and ambition that have helped them succeed. We are incredibly proud of all of our students and every student recognised today. “We also recognise and acknowledge the support our students receive from their families and friends as well as all of our incredible staff who
take such pride in supporting our students. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors for helping make this celebration possible.” The event concluded with students, families, staff, and sponsors joining together to celebrate the successes of another exceptional year, inspiring the next generation of learners as they prepare for their future careers, apprenticeships, and higher education journeys.
North Lindsey College, Further Education Awards, The Baths Hall, Lily-Mai Proctor, Music student, Principal's award, Most Inspirational Award, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, DN Colleges Group, Performing Arts students, afternoon tea
Cancer survivor awards, good for her.
So she had Hodgkin’s lymphoma and still went to school and won two awards? That’s honestly wild. I hope the treatment goes well, like that’s incredible determination.
Principal’s award plus Most Inspirational… does that mean the principal picked her because she was sick? Like I’m not saying it’s fake, just seems kinda like sympathy awards. Either way, congrats I guess.
I saw “Baths Hall” and thought it was like a sports awards thing, but then it’s music and college and afternoon tea? Also Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in early 2025… that’s crazy, but why would they even diagnose that and still let her do first-year work early? Maybe she didn’t have it that whole time or something, idk. Either way, wishing her the best and I’m glad she got recognized.