A 20-year-old accountancy student at Halesowen College has been awarded a top prize recognizing her hard work.

Maria Krasinkiewicz, who lives in Oldbury, was presented with her trophy at a special awards ceremony at the college Coombs Wood Business Centre.

The annual award given by John Travers, founder of spomsors Stourbridge-based John D Travers and Co to encourage the efforts of students keen to develop their technical accountancy skills at AAT level 3, equivalent to A-level.

He said: “The judges were very impressed with this year’s candidates all of whom were extremely high calibre, but it is testament to Maria’s sparkling performance in all aspects of her work that she came out on top.”

Maria, who until recently worked in a local firm of accountants, has now secured a position at BDO, one of the UK’s major accounting firms.

She said: “Achieving AAT level 3 has opened new doors and is helping me to progress more quickly in my chosen career.

“The knowledge gained is being put to good use in my work and I am honoured to have been recognised for my hard work both within and outside college. Winning this award gives me even more motivation for the future and I am truly grateful for the opportunity provided by John D Travers & Co."

This year’s runners-up were 24-year-old Jerone Swaby and Amy Simcox, aged 19, both of whom passed all their assessments with flying colours.

Mary Samuels, AAT course tutor said: “Demand for this course which can lay the foundation for a range of careers in finance and accountancy is consistently high and we are always impressed by the diligence and enthusiasm of our students.

“However, to win this award is mark of excellence and we are delighted for Maria that she has won this year’s top prize and wish her all the very best for the future.”