AN engineering student is living life in the fast lane after scooping a prestigious award at Trafford College

Oliver Skelland, 19, was named as Student of the Year, a new award which is jointly organised with the college and in partnership with Northampton based Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains(HPP).

Oliver who won the award while doing his level 3 BTEC course, was chosen as outright winner by teachers for his dedication, enthusiasm and his exemplary attendance.

Top performing students, such as Oliver, were given the opportunity to apply for advanced apprenticeships with HPP, the organisation which designs, develops and manufactures the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 racing engines and hybrid systems.

His prize now includes a guaranteed work placement, £500 and a signed certificate from Andy Cowell, HPP's managing director.

Oliver said: “Winning this prize is the best thing that has ever happened to me! I have been watching Formula 1 since I was four years old and as soon as I heard about this opportunity at HPP, I wanted to be part of it.

"After college, my dream job would be to work at HPP. I’m looking forward to my work experience there; it’ll be the highlight of my year!

"The college has really helped and supported me and I wouldn’t have had this fantastic opportunity without them. £500 is the most money I’ve ever had and I still can’t believe it!”

Sir Bill Moorcroft, college principal said: “Engineering and technology is at the heart of everything we do. As a college it’s important for us to develop relationships with world-class companies like HPP to give our students the best opportunities to progress into high profile careers.”

Stuart Boyer, employee development manager for HPP, briefed students on the competition last year during a special visit to the college’s centre for science and technology.

Mr Boyer added: "Working alongside Trafford College we are able to tap into a wide pool of talent and raise awareness of the great opportunities we have available at HPP. Oliver’s guaranteed interview will give him a head start on the other applicants for an apprenticeship in F1.”

The award Is the first competition of its kind and involves both engineering and motor vehicle students who have been observed and had their work evaluated.