Bury College University Centre recently celebrated the successes of its higher education students at its annual Graduation Ceremony. The event formally recognised the exceptional achievements of the College’s graduating students across a range of level 4 and 5 courses, degrees and teacher training programmes.

Graduates were joined by their friends, families and tutors to mark the occasion.  Proceedings began at the Bury College University Centre before all graduates and the platform party, donning caps and gowns, took part in a graduation parade across to the Met Theatre in Bury.  

Charlie Deane, Principal and Chief Executive of Bury College, gave a welcome address with keynote addresses delivered by Jo Purves, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Academic Development at The University of Salford and Brian Webster- Henderson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Cumbria.  

Each year at graduation, the College presents an Honorary Award to individuals or organisations for outstanding services to the community.  This year’s worthy recipient was Mike Moore in recognition of his devotion and time as a volunteer at the East Lancashire Railway.

Amidst the day’s celebrations, students shared their delight with the College staff.  Shaquina-Estell Grant studied Applied Science HNC, and like many of her fellow graduates, had progressed from a level 3 course at the College, she said “the support from my tutors throughout my time here was amazing, I cannot thank them enough.”   Shaquina is now studying Biology at the University of Salford moving directly onto the second year of the degree.

Fellow graduate Cameron Wheeler successfully completed the Engineering HNC, he said “I really enjoyed my course. The tutors and the friends I gained made my time here amazing.” Cameron is set to take on employment in the engineering and manufacturing industries putting the knowledge and skills he gained into practice.

Wahiba Kedjounia joined the College as a part-time English and maths student in 2018.  She was awarded the Professional Graduate Certificate in Education teacher training qualification and has now secured employment as an ESOL teacher at the College.

Peter Kevin Rowland-Rhodes completed his Certificate in Education teacher training qualification alongside running a busy local salon, Rolly’s Hair and Beauty Salon.  Peter continues his studies at Bury College University Centre and is on track to graduate again next year as he tops up his qualification with a BSc (Hons) in Salon Management.  His long-term ambition is to teach Hairdressing.

Graduates from a range of other programmes enjoyed the day. This included courses in Healthcare, Social & Community Work, Working with Children & Families, Teaching Assistants, Media Make Up, Sport & Exercise Science, Hospitality Management and Public Services.

Following the ceremony, graduates and their guests were invited to a drinks and canapes reception to celebrate their achievements in more relaxed surroundings.

Lisa Matthews, Assistant Principal for Adult and Higher Skills, Health and Childcare at Bury College, said: “We know that the higher skills developed by our graduates are in demand amongst the region’s private and public sector employers.  Year after year, a significant majority of our students enter the job market in roles highly related to their programme of study, or secure higher-paid positions as a result of achieving a Level 4 or above qualification.  The celebrated success of our students is a testament to the vision and commitment of our staff and governors.  The College’s University Centre is at the heart of its community, making it an accessible place of learning, development and growth. We are immensely proud of their achievements and wish them the best of luck as they continue in their careers or further their education.”

Click here to see the pictures from the Morning Ceremony - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=BuryCollegeUniCentre&set=a.3372328906341013    

Click here to see the pictures from the Afternoon Ceremony - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=BuryCollegeUniCentre&set=a.3373047432935827   

If you have been inspired by the success of our incredible students, check out our range of university courses starting in September 2023. https://www.paperturn-view.com/burycollege/he-course-guide-2023-web?pid=Mjc275663&v=2