Newcastle College held their Higher Education Graduation event on Friday. It was great to be able to get these awards rescheduled after they were postponed from July; owing to the pandemic they included students who had graduated both in 2020 and 2021.
This cohort of students have gained higher level qualifications equivalent to either the first or second year of university study. Many of them chose to stay with Newcastle College rather than transferring to university, which is a testament to the outstanding quality of the education available at the College.
As we know, students have had it tough through the pandemic. They - and the staff - have all gone to extra effort having to work remotely with all the extra challenge that brings.
I had the honour of presenting the graduation certificates, and also the awards recognising those who were nominated for going above and beyond.
It was a pleasure to speak to the students and find out what they are doing in their next steps in life. Some are topping up their courses at university and some are going to begin their careers. I wish them all the best of luck in the future for what is to come.
I will be back at the College this evening for their Student Celebration Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions and successes of their current students (https://nscg.ac.uk/.../celebratio.../celebration-awards-2021).