A Barking and Dagenham College student has scooped a national education award in recognition of his diligent approach to his course.

Jephta Asamoah, 18, was named Leidos and Career Ready UK Student of the Year in Canary Wharf last week, beating thousands from across the UK.

Jephta, who is deaf, is on the Career Ready programme, which aims to equip students with the necessary skills to land a job. Students also complete paid work experience and receive professional mentoring.

He said: “Before I started the programme I was a frustrated and angry young man, fed up of being told I couldn’t do things because of my disability.

“Now, I’m working with directors and CEOs and I’ve just accepted a place to study politics at Lancaster University.”

Nicky Gibson, director of student support at the college, said: “Jeptha is a true inspiration to young people with disabilities - he is living proof nothing in life should hold you back from achieving your dreams.”