Bury College University Centre have celebrated the successes of their higher education students at a graduation ceremony.

The event recognised the achievements of the college’s students across a range of level 4 and 5 courses, degrees and teacher training programmes.

Friends, family and tutors all came to mark the occasion and proceedings at the centre began before all graduates and the platform party, donning caps and gowns, took part in a graduation parade across to The Met theatre.

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 recipient was Mike Moore in recognition of his devotion and time as a volunteer at the East Lancashire Railway.

Throughout the day, 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 salon, Rolly’s Hair and Beauty Salon on  Bolton Street in Bury.

Peter continues his studies at the 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 courses including healthcare, social and community work, working with children and families, teaching assistants, media make up, sport and exercise science, hospitality management and public services enjoyed the day too.

Lisa Matthews, assistant principal for adult and higher skills, health and childcare at the 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.”