Class of 2023 celebrated at Bury College University Centre Graduation Ceremony

Bury College University Centre has once again celebrated the successes of our inspirational higher education students. 

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

Charlie Deane, Principal and Chief Executive of Bury College, gave a welcome speech with the keynote address delivered by Liz Larner, Deputy Dean at the University of Salford. 

As part of the ceremony, we also presented an Honorary Award to our former Chair of Governors, Peter Nicol. Peter was given this award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the local community. Peter was also awarded a British Empire Medal in 2023 for his services to education and has been a much-valued member of the Bury College Board of Governors.

The ceremony can be watched here. Huge thanks to everyone at The Met for helping us set this up. 

Mayor of Bury, Councillor Sandra Walmsley, was also in attendance, she said: “I was delighted to join the graduation ceremony with Bury College students and staff at the Met theatre. The ceremony was very special, with students graduating in a large range of subjects. Their qualifications are hugely important as they not only aid the students in their chosen career paths, they also widen the skill sets we have locally to help bolster our economy. As a former student graduate of 2017, I can say from personal experience, that Bury College is a great asset for our town. Congratulations to all student graduates and best of luck in your next ventures”

Amongst the day’s celebrations, students shared their delight at what they had achieved.  

Lily Agate graduated from her BSc (Hons) in International Tourism Management and is already putting her education to good use. She is now the Regional Manager of a Premier Inn. Lily told us: “The whole course was amazing. It really helped develop my skills for the industry and enhance my career prospects. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.”

Vincent Mcguire completed his Engineering HNC and is now working within that industry as an apprentice. Vincent said: "The best thing about the course was the amazing and supportive tutors. They have really helped develop my skills.”

Danielle Fallon studied the Sport and Exercise Science HNC and has now progressed onto the second year at UA92 where she is studying Physical Education. Danielle also spoke about her supportive tutors, she said: "They were always there for me and helped me get to this stage. I now can’t wait to progress with my education at UA92. “

It was also great to celebrate the success of our trainee teachers who completed the Professional Graduate Certificate in Education, many of whom are now teaching at Bury College. Kyle Anderson is now a Sports Tutor here and like so many others spoke about how the course helped prepare him for his career. 

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.”

You can see some of the highlights from the day by checking out our thread on X. 

More photos from the day can be found on our Facebook album. 

We’re so proud of all the amazing graduates who have done exceptionally well. If you have been inspired by their success and want to start your Higher Education journey, explore our range of university courses starting in September 2024: burycollege.ac.uk/university-centre