The 21-year-old Chester-based student graduated on November 6th from University Centre Reaseheath with a Foundation Degree in Dairy Technology, alongside receiving the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Achievement and Personal Progression – a major honour celebrating four years of hard work, commitment and personal growth.
Ben began his studies at Reaseheath College in 2021 on the Level 3 Food Science course, driven by a curiosity about how food is made and the wide range of careers the industry offers.
“I loved studying food in high school and then at a different college,” he explained.
“There are so many different areas within the industry – quality, continuous improvement, food safety – and they all interested me. The Level 3 course was the best way to learn in the classroom and through practicals. At the end of those two years, I chose dairy to focus my next steps on through the EDEN (European Dairy Education Network) course.”
His tutors described him as quietly determined – someone who consistently put in the work, asked thoughtful questions and progressed steadily with every challenge.
“Ben’s curiosity and aptitude for dairy processing became clear very early on,” said Mike Bennett, Processing Halls Manager.
“He had a natural ability to understand how equipment worked and spot potential issues before they developed. Watching that quiet capability turn into confidence and professional maturity has been brilliant.”
Ben progressed into the EDEN Dairy Technology Apprenticeship, where he secured a placement at Müller’s Market Drayton butter factory. There, he gained valuable experience across production, quality control and process improvement, building strong professional skills and deepening his understanding of the dairy sector.
Reflecting on his development, Ben said: “It was when I was preparing for my final assignment that I realised how far I’d come. Seeing all my hard work going into my presentation – and then delivering it to industry experts and getting runner-up for the Society of Dairy Technology Project of the Year – it really hit me how much I’d achieved.”
This consistent progress, combined with his professionalism and humility, earned Ben this year’s Dean’s Award for Outstanding Achievement and Personal Progression.
“Ben’s story epitomises what this award is about,” added Mike.
“He’s shown enormous academic progress and genuine impact in industry – the kind of graduate any employer would be proud to have.”
For Ben, the award felt deeply meaningful.
“It means a great deal,” he said. “It just shows how far I’ve come – from starting at Level 3 to completing a foundation degree. I could never have imagined I’d be here when I first started.”
He credits Reaseheath’s supportive teaching culture for helping him grow in confidence and find his strengths.
“Understand that teachers are there to support and guide you,” he advised future students. Be the best you can be and make the most of every experience and opportunity.”
Ben is keeping his next step open – but he feels ready for whatever comes next.
“The experience at Reaseheath will definitely help me get a positive start in my career in the dairy industry,” he said.
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