Class of 2025 celebrated at graduation ceremony

Bury College University Centre has once again celebrated the success and progression of its inspirational higher education students.

Graduates were joined by their friends, families and tutors to mark the occasion at The Met Theatre.

Becky Tootell, Deputy Principal for Curriculum and Quality of Bury College, gave a welcome speech with the keynote address delivered by Liz Larner, Deputy Dean for Salford Business School at the University of Salford. Liz commented on what was a wonderful day by saying “It was a privilege to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the students at Bury College. There was exceptional support from families, friends and the dedicated team at the College. It was a testament to all of their hard work. Many congratulations to all of the graduates.”

Lisa Matthews, Assistant Principal for Adult and Higher Education, 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 due to achieving a higher-level qualification. The celebrated success and positive progression of our students is a testament to the vision and commitment of our staff and governors. Our 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.”

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Tahir Rafiq, was also in attendance, and students from Bury College’s Performing Arts department opened the Ceremony with a rendition of Miley Cyrus’s ‘The Climb’.

Sian Quinn, graduating from the BSc (Hons) Salon Management (top-up), said:

“I would like to open my own business, and my course has given me all the skills I need to do that. I’m really excited and proud of myself.”

Graduating from the BA (Hons) Working with Children & Families was Tabitha Hardman, who now works in a primary school, supporting SEND children.

“My course gave me the insight and confidence I needed to do more in my profession. I’ve got young children and studying at Bury College University Centre enabled me to be flexible and balance my education with my home life.”

Certificate in Education graduate, Warren Barlow, commented:

“Studying at Bury College was great, everyone helps each other and there is a real community feel there.”

Warren began working as a Technician in Bury College’s electrical department, when the opportunity to do his course arose. He now works full-time as a Lecturer at the college, teaching students in the same place he studied.

Graduating together were twin sisters, Aniqa and Nafisa Shahid. Aniqa, who completed the HNC Healthcare Practice course, said:

“Everything was given to us step-by-step, which made it easier. I’ve now been able to get into children’s nursing.”

Nafisa, who studied HNC Public Services, added:

“The teachers were helpful – my course followed on from my college studies, meaning I had the same teachers and the same support. I’m so proud to be graduating with my sister.”