Sunderland College honoured its Higher Education students recently with a memorable Graduation Ceremony at its Durham Road Bede Campus.
During the event, more than 60 graduands were presented with their diplomas from a wide range of courses, including top up honours degrees; foundation degrees; higher apprenticeships; higher national diplomas; higher national certificates; and professional qualifications.
After introductions from Vice Chair of Governors, Professor Alison Shaw, students – who wore traditional academic dress – took centre stage to receive their awards. Phil Smith, Chief Executive of TT2 Limited, was the guest speaker on the day which was presided over by Education Partnership North East and Sunderland College Chief Executive Ellen Thinnesen.
Following the Ceremony, graduates joined their friends and families in the campus’Theatre Eighteen for a drink reception
Ellen Thinnesen said: “We were delighted to share this important day with all our Higher Education students and I’m proud of everything they have worked hard to achieve during their time with us.
“As graduates, I know they will now use their higher-level skills and knowledge to positively contribute to the economy and society, and foster a better world.
“I would like to thank all of our higher education staff for the support they have given our graduates during their studies, and I wish all those who graduated every success in the future.”
Among this year’s graduates were two award winners – the David Child’s Award for Outstanding Achievement on an Engineering course went to HNC student Amy Rawding, while HND Creative Media Production for Games student Bradley Tully was presented with the Principal’s Award for Academic Excellence.
Bradley, 20, from Seaham, who is completing an apprenticeship with Sumo Digital in Newcastle, said: “The best thing about studying at Sunderland College is the amount of freedom it gives you. The college really cares about its students and offers a lot of opportunities in industry that you didn’t know existed.
“Due to the pandemic, a lot of work had to be done from home, however my lecturers were always available if I ever needed them. They were always there and went out of their way to help me excel.
“Studying here has helped me get a foot in the door in the gaming industry and progress within Sumo, who said they were very impressed with the skills I have learned at college. I’m hoping to continue to a higher degree and see where my career goes from there.”
Sunderland College offers a variety of Higher Education courses including a number run in partnership with and accredited by local universities, such as the University of Cumbria.
Apply online at www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk or visit an open event to find out more.
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98% of our students progress to a positive destination
(*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).
Our achievement rates are well above the national average.
We are the College of the Year.
(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)
100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study.
(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)
We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.
