There was a double celebration at Southport College University Centre on Wednesday, when students and degree level apprentices from the Class of both 2020 and 2021 gathered together for their formal Graduation Ceremony, watched by their family and friends.
With over 150 students graduating, there were two ceremonies this year, both held in the very fitting surroundings of the town’s Holy Trinity Church and presided over by Michelle Brabner, Principal and CEO of the College and University Centre.
Damien Moore MP and Steve Rotherham, Metro Mayor of Liverpool City Region, were the keynote speakers.
Students Emma Bullimore (BA Criminology and Social Sciences) and Emma McDonough (Level 5 Leadership & Management Apprenticeship) also spoke, passionately talking about their experiences at the University Centre and the opportunities their qualifications have given them; and encouraging anyone who was thinking about it, to just go for it as it really is life changing!
There was an ongoing theme of determination and resilience, as tutors commended their students and apprentices for not only achieving their qualifications whilst coping with remote learning, but for many of them for also combining studying with working in demanding front line NHS roles too.
The university centre attracts local students from all walks of life, many of whom are returning to education after some time to pursue a new career path and juggle studying for their degree with work and family. Students on Wednesday were graduating in a wide variety of subjects including HNDs in Graphic Design, Engineering and Photography; BA(hons) in Health and Social Care, BA (hons) in Criminology and PGCE; and Southport College University Centre is proud to work with partners UCLan and University of Cumbria, enabling students to achieve a full honours degree, whilst studying here in the town.
Speaking after the event, Michelle Brabner said: “What a wonderful day it has been. I am delighted we were all able to join together and celebrate our students’ and apprentices’ fantastic achievements.
“The determination they have shown to achieve these qualifications in such unprecedented times is incredible and we are so proud of each and every one of them.
“I would also like to thank the many key employers from across the region that we work with and many of whom joined us at the ceremony, for the support they have shown their employees whilst studying with us.
“Whether you are a student now ready to embark on an exciting new career path, or a higher level apprentice progressing within your organisation, congratulations, we wish you a very bright and successful future.”
Southport College University Centre is a friendly and supportive place to study and offers a wide range of degree level courses, with many students combining study with work or family life. There are a few places still available for September 2021 and more information can be found at
www.southport.ac.uk/universitycentre
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