A NORTH-EAST student has won a national award for the commitment and determination she put into her studies.

Suzanne Clark has won a prestigious OCR Recognising Achievement Award for her efforts at Gateshead College.

She arrived at the college with no qualifications but studied under the New Deal programme, gaining OCR NVQ administration level two, as well as secretarial skills. She also did work experience in the college's technology and telematics department.

When she finished her studies she found temporary work but is now a full-time administration officer at the college.

Suzanne, who has also won a student award at the college, received her award at a ceremony in London.

She said: "I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. I had an idea that I had been nominated by my tutors but never thought I would get the award."

Suzanne's New Deal personal tutor Janet Halliday said: "I am honoured to say that no student is more deserving of these awards than Suzanne, for her commitment, motivation, and determination to succeed in her studies.