UHI celebrates inspirational students of the year in Orkney

UHI Orkney is proud to celebrate the achievements of its 2025 Students of the Year, honouring two outstanding learners whose dedication, enthusiasm and contributions have made a lasting impression on their peers, lecturers and the wider community.

Alicen Geddes – UHI Orkney Student of the Year 2025: Contribution

Nominated by Professor Donna Heddle, Alicen recently completed a Master of Research (MRes) in Northern Studies, a one-year postgraduate research course exploring the cultural, literary, and historical heritage of the North. With a deep passion for poetry, she focused her research on Earl Rognnvaldr’s role in the ‘Orkneyinga Saga’, uncovering new insights into his early arrival in Westray from Norway.

Now living in Westray herself, she found personal connection and inspiration in the landscapes and stories she studied:

“I'm in my element when I'm reading and researching poetry, and Viking poetry in particular. Finding out that Earl Rognnvaldr had been in Westray, I was able to imagine him where they brought in their Viking long boat, and all the places where his poetry was written.”

Beyond her research, she also served as a HISA student representative for the UHI Institute for Northern Studies, actively supporting her fellow students and helping shape the learning experience. Her award recognises both academic excellence and her meaningful contribution to student life.

Professor Donna Heddle, Director of the UHI Institute for Northern Studies, said:

“Alicen has demonstrated an exceptional blend of academic curiosity and personal commitment. Her work sheds light on the poetic dimensions of Orkney’s Norse past, while her engagement with the student community has been invaluable. We are all very proud of her!”

Grace Brown – UHI Orkney Student of the Year 2025: Attainment

Nominated for her outstanding academic achievement and positive attitude throughout her NQ Childcare Practice course, Grace impressed staff and placement providers alike with her enthusiasm, commitment and care.

Reflecting on her learning journey, she said:

“The childcare course has had a big impact on me, especially through my placement experience. It’s helped me understand how to give children the best possible start in life, and being surrounded by children and experienced practitioners taught me so much.

“I feel really proud and grateful to have been nominated for Student of the Year for attainment — it’s shown me that hard work really does pay off. I’ve loved learning more about childcare and how to be the best practitioner I can be.”

We asked Grace what had brought her to UHI Orkney:

“I chose UHI Orkney because the course was exactly what I was looking for, and I already knew some of the lecturers, which really helped me settle in. I'm hoping to continue next year on the HNC in Childhood Practice and, eventually, become a fully qualified practitioner.”

Ali Hepburn, Lecturer in Early Learning, Childcare and Teacher Education at UHI Orkney, said:

“Grace joined us as a senior phase student in Skills for Work: Early Learning and Childcare, and now, as she completes her NQ in Childhood Practice, we are delighted to recognise her exceptional achievements. She has consistently worked hard and shown real commitment, overcoming challenges with positivity and determination to pursue her goal of working in Early Years Education.

“Part of her course included a placement in a local nursery, where both staff and children speak highly of her. Grace produces excellent academic work, always gives her best, and supports her peers. We look forward to seeing her continue her studies with us and know she will inspire others.”