Wiltshire College & University Centre honoured its Higher Education students on Friday 21st October with a memorable Graduation Ceremony held at Salisbury Cathedral.
In total, more than 100 students who completed university-level and degree-level programmes at the College this summer graduated surrounded by their families and friends in the spectacular setting offered by the Cathedral.
Ahead of the ceremony, graduates took part in a special procession through the city as they paraded from Salisbury Playhouse, along Fisherton Street and High Street before entering the Cathedral grounds.
Councillor Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, was the guest speaker, while College Principal & CEO Iain Hatt and Chair of Governors Martin Clark also gave speeches.
College Principal & CEO Iain Hatt said: “The College was delighted to be able to celebrate those students who completed Higher Education programmes with us this year at our annual Graduation ceremony. With the stunning surroundings of Salisbury Cathedral, it was truly a day to remember.
“The achievements celebrated at Graduation are an important milestone for students. They will open doors to opportunities both now and in the future, and all students should rightly feel proud of their success.
“I would like to thank all College staff and the many employers for the help and support they have given our graduates during their studies, and I wish all those who graduated at Friday’s ceremony every success in the future.”
The College offers a wide variety of Higher Education courses across its campuses around the county, including a number validated by top UK universities such as Bournemouth University and Oxford Brooks University.
For graduates and their families, it was a day worthy of the occasion and many enjoyed reuniting with friends to celebrate the academic success they have achieved together.
Victoria Hammond, who completed the HND Crime and Criminal Justice course, said: “It was a really amazing day – everyone was absolutely lovely. Apart from the weather, it couldn’t have gone any better. I really enjoyed the course and I am now going to do a top-up year with the recommended university. It’s such an interesting topic and once I have completed this top-up year, I am hoping that I will be able to go straight into work.”
Kyle Young graduated from the BEng (Hons) Motorsport Technology course and said: “It was a really good day. It was great to get back together with everyone to celebrate. The course was really good and it was a really fun few years. I’d definitely recommend it for anyone wanting to work in motorsport. I’m now working for a supplier in the industry.”
Gypsy-Rose Daniel, a graduate from the Foundation Degree (FdSc) Environmental Science and Sustainability course, said: “It was really, really fun day and a brilliant celebration after all the hard work everyone has put in. The course was very enjoyable. We did lots of field trips and practical activities, so it was a really hands-on course. I am working in a hotel at the moment but I am definitely looking at jobs in the industry to try to start my career.”
The College is grateful to everyone at Salisbury Cathedral, without whose support the ceremonies would not have been able to take place.
For more information on the College’s Higher Education provision, click here.
