RFS Student of the Year Awards presented to Cumbria graduates
Two students, Lara Jo Bazzu (right) and Gareth Biggins (left), have been awarded the prestigious RFS Student of the Year prize for the Professional Forester Degree Apprenticeship. Rikky Sweet (centre) was awarded the North West Division of the Royal Forestry Society Prize
This week, three graduating students from the University of Cumbria’s BSc (Hons) Professional Forester Degree Apprenticeship were recognised by the RFS for excellence, dedication and contribution to the future of the forestry profession.
Two new graduates were presented with the RFS Student of the Year Award at their graduation ceremony in November, while the North West Division of the Royal Forestry Society Prize was awarded to Rikky Sweet.
Congratulations to Lara Jo Bazzu, who attained the highest final degree mark in the programme. Her methodical approach with outstanding attention to detail has seen her progress from being a student entirely new to the field of forestry to become a well-informed and highly competent professional forester by the end of her degree.
“I am moved and honoured to receive this recognition. Being part of the very first cohort of the Professional Forester Degree Apprenticeship has been a journey of learning, growth and meaningful connections. This experience has culminated in the graduation of fully qualified foresters, coming from a diversity of life paths, paving the way for many more to follow.”
Gareth Biggins was also praised for his final degree grade and for being a perceptive and authoritative voice within his cohort. Changing career to complete the degree, Gareth has employed a wealth of cross-disciplinary skills to support his studies.
Changing career to complete this degree in Professional Forestry, Gareth has employed a wealth of cross-disciplinary skills to support his studies, and together with his dedication to the programme, this has enabled him to produce work of truly exceptional quality.
“I’m truly humbled and honoured to receive the Royal Forestry Society’s Student of the Year Award, especially among such a talented and dedicated cohort of fellow apprentices. I hope this recognition helps inspire others to explore a career in forestry and join the growing community working to care for our woodlands and landscapes in the face of their many challenges.”
Rikky was praised by the North West Division for drawing on his strengths, such as strong attention to detail, to elevate his learning and performance. The significant improvement in his work over the course of the degree, as well as the challenges he has overcome, stand as an inspiring example to his peers. His commitment, resilience, and the consistently high standard of his assignments make this recognition richly deserved.
"I'd like to recognise the entire 'trail‑blazing' cohort for their hard work and resilience. It's been a privilege to study alongside such fine people. Equally, our achievements are rooted in the professionals who shaped and supported the programme. Looking ahead, I hope we can contribute positively to the forestry sector — always championing trees and the benefits they bring to people, nature, and the economy."
