A Strabane student has received a major award at North West Regional College’s annual Best in Further Education event.

Cody Brown, 16, was announced as the 2026 recipient of the Eileen Cairns award during ceremonies at the college’s Strabane campus. The award is presented in memory of Eileen Cairns, a former lecturer at the campus.

Brown completed a Level 3 Children’s Care Learning and Development course while working part-time. Lecturer Pamela Canning praised her as an outstanding student who demonstrated determination and grew significantly in confidence throughout the year.

During her placement at a local primary school, Brown received excellent feedback from the principal and placement officer. The principal said Brown was the best student she had ever hosted and offered her employment, also encouraging her to pursue teaching.

Brown will return to NWRC Strabane in September to begin the extended Level 3 CCLD programme, which provides a pathway to higher education.