Student succeeds in memory of Mum

A student who lost her mum suddenly just weeks before the end of her final year at college, persevered to secure a top grade.

Kirsty-Leigh Lorrimer, 18, was studying for her final year of the BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts at Hopwood Hall College.

In their final year, students have to do a Final Major Project; this year it was a show, called ‘A Charitable Intent’.

Ms Lorrimer was given a major part by her tutor because she had always worked so hard and had excellent attendance and punctuality.

However, during the first week of rehearsals, her tutor Paul Howarth heard the sad news that her mum passed away, incredibly unexpectedly.

So, Mr Howarth offered to request ‘special dispensation’ for her, which is where an exam board will average out a mark without the need for the student to complete their final project.

Determined Ms Lorrimer refused outright; she said that she wanted to make her mum proud and pass her exams without help. And she did - incredibly well.

Ms Lorrimer put in a tremendous performance, passing the course with a Distinction, Distinction, Merit (DDM) the second highest grade you can get.

On top of that also took responsibility for organising the very successful Leavers Ball for her fellow students at the Royal Toby in Rochdale, which she did single-handed. This involved publicising the event, collecting money and decorating the room for the Ball.

Her tutor Paul said: “She’s always shown commitment and hard work and it’s been an honour to teach her; I’m sure she’ll achieve everything she sets out to achieve and we all wish her well for the future.”

Ms Lorrimer’s hard work has paid off – she’s secured a place to study Drama and Theatre studies at Huddersfield University.