Hospitality students recognised at the 2026 HATA Awards

Students from our hospitality courses have been recognised for their hard work, commitment and achievements at this year’s annual HATA Awards. 

The event which celebrates students across all levels, highlights their contribution to real industry experiences, their support for one another, and the personal progress they have made throughout the academic year. 

Supporting real industry events 

• Students were commended for their involvement in a range of high-profile events, including the HIT Scotland Fundraising Dinner at the Kingsmills Hotel, the Mini Cook Dinner and a Long Service celebration event. 

• These opportunities allowed students to apply their skills in real working environments, building confidence and gaining valuable experience alongside industry professionals. 

• A special congratulations was given to Lexie Banford, who was awarded the prestigious HIT Scotland Scholarship, recognising her talent and potential within the hospitality sector. 

Student Choice Award 

Voted for by the students, this award allows them to choose one student from their class who they felt has been reliable and who they see as being a good student: 

The Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) award resulted in an unusual six-way tie, highlighting the strength of the group and their commitment to each other.  

• Eve Munro 

• Kenzie Johnston 

• Jake Milne  

• Lexie Banford 

• Melissa Ross  

• Rowan Doel 

Leigh Ann Ewing received the Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 6) award. 

Recognising future industry talent 

The Most Potential Awards celebrated students who demonstrated strong work ethic, engagement and a positive attitude towards their future careers. 

Winners included: 

• Jake Milne –Professional Cookery (SCQF Level 5) 

• Lexie Banford – Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) 

• Finlay Watson – Professional Cookery (SCQF Level 6) 

• Leigh Ann Ewing – Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 6) 

Exceeding Expectations Award  

Recognises students who overcame early challenges and grew in confidence.  

• Melissa Ross - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) 

• Rowan Doel - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) 

• Nicole Tomlinson - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 6) 

Best Attendance Awards  

• Dylan Carter - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) (98% attendance) 

• Nicole Tomlinson - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 6) (92.2% attendance) 

The Distance Travelled Award  

Celebrates students who made significant progress in their learning and development. This year’s winners were  

• Dylan Carter - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) 

• Kenzie Johnston - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 5) 

• Aidan Storey - Hospitality Operations (SCQF Level 6) 

Barista of the Year 

• Leigh Ann Ewing, recognising her skills, precision and customer service. 

Mike Crossland Award  

Presented to a student who has overcome many challenges to get to where they are: 

• Aidan Storey in recognition of his resilience and determination in overcoming challenges during his studies. 

Student of the Year  

For the HATA student who shows great attitude and doing everything with a smile; from being so unsure at the start of the year to blossoming with confidence by the end - we couldn't be prouder: 

• Finlay Watson, who was recognised for his positive attitude, commitment to learning and consistent high performance throughout the course.