Students from Northumberland College’s specialist SEND provision and Higher Education (HE) programmes have celebrated their achievements in two inspiring graduation ceremonies at Kirkley Hall Campus.
The celebrations began with the college’s SEND graduation, recognising the achievements of students from Foundations, Northumberland College’s specialist provision for young people aged 16 to 24 with special educational needs and disabilities. The Foundation Learning programme is especially for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Foundations provides a fully inclusive environment where learners develop independence, community awareness and essential life skills through personalised learning pathways designed to support progression into adulthood, further study and employment.
Hosted by Chair Board of Corporation Alison Shaw, the ceremony featured a speech from Hannah Young, a Northumberland College Alumni, who congratulated graduates on their achievements and the positive impact they have made throughout their college journey.
Lee Lister, Group Executive Principal for National Skills (FE) said: “Employers, families, senior leaders, staff and governors assembled again in their numbers to celebrate the brilliant achievements and successes of our students with SEND for our second graduation, this time at Northumberland College.
“It was a brilliant day of true inclusion, where students showcased just how far they had progressed.
“Progress and achievement can look and feel very different if you live with a learning difficulty or disability. At EPNE we value and celebrate this difference and deliberately take time to recognise their amazing journeys.”
The second ceremony celebrated the success of Northumberland College’s Higher Education students and higher apprentices.
During the ceremony, graduates were presented with qualifications from a wide range of university-level programmes, including honours degrees, foundation degrees, higher apprenticeships, higher national diplomas, higher national certificates and professional qualifications.
Northumberland College offers a wide range of Higher Education courses, enabling students to gain university-level qualifications while studying locally. The college’s career-focused programmes combine academic study with practical experience, helping learners develop real-world skills and progress into employment, further study or professional careers.
Judith Quinn, Group Executive Principal for National Skills Higher Education, said: “It was an amazing day to see all of our higher education students and higher apprentice’s graduate, this time at Northumberland College. It is a massive achievement for them and a testament to the support and encouragement they have received throughout their studies.
“We are passionate advocates of lifelong learning and our higher education programmes provide opportunities for people from all backgrounds to gain qualifications, develop professionally and achieve their ambitions.”
Among this year’s Higher Education graduates were two special award recipients. The Daniel Grieg Memorial Award was presented to Nick Taylor, while Kerry Yarrow received the Chief Executive Award for Academic Excellence.
The awards recognise students who have gone above and beyond in their studies while making a positive contribution to the wider college community, their workplaces and their future progression.
Nick, who studied Animal Welfare and Management said: “I’ve had a great day today celebrating my graduation and winning the award is a great achievement knowing I’ve worked so hard and putting in the effort.
“My time here at the college has been wonderful and will hold a special place in my heart. The opportunities it’s provided me with has led me to where I am now and I’ll be forever grateful.”
Kerry, who studies Wildlife Conservation added: “Today has been a lovely day, celebrating with everyone who I’ve studied alongside.
“From my first day here, I made sure to do a lot of networking and volunteering to put myself in the best position I could for my career and I think that’s been reflected on why I won the award.
“Studying here has been great – I didn’t go to university so being able to come and study here was great for me. My peers and staff have been really supportive and I’m so glad I came here to do this course.”
Following the ceremonies, graduates joined family and friends in the historic 17th century Kirkley Hall for a drinks reception to formally mark the end of their programmes and the start of the next chapter in their bright futures.
We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
Our student transport scheme is available for eligible students to make getting to and from college as easy as possible.
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities.
Northumberland College, as part of college group EPNE, receives an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.
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