Sunderland College students celebrate achievements at graduations

Students from Sunderland College’s specialist SEND provision and Higher Education (HE) programmes have celebrated their achievements in two inspiring graduation ceremonies at Bede Campus.

The celebrations began with the college’s SEND graduation, recognising the achievements of students from Directions, Sunderland College’s specialist provision for young people aged 16 to 24 with special educational needs and disabilities. Directions 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 Lee Lister, Group Executive Principal for National Skills (FE), the ceremony featured a speech from Louise Bradford, Vice Chair of Governors and Managing Director of Creo Comms, who congratulated graduates on their achievements and the positive impact they have made throughout their college journey.

Lee said: “Employers, families, senior leaders, staff and governors assembled in their numbers to celebrate the brilliant achievements and successes of our students with SEND.

“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.

“There is nothing to lift your spirits more than the sheer joy and pride of a graduation ceremony that celebrates the unique achievements of our students.”

The second ceremony celebrated the success of Sunderland College’s Higher Education students and higher apprentices.

Presided over by EPNE Governor Pamela Dawson, the graduation also featured an address from Marie Nixon, Theatre Director at Sunderland Empire and a Sunderland College alumna, who reflected on her own career journey and encouraged graduates as they take their next steps.

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.

A moment of silence was also held in memory of the students who tragically lost their lives in the River Wear incident the previous week.

Sunderland 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 apprentices graduate. 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 David Child’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Engineering was presented to Jack Fox, while Georgia Hughes 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.

Following the ceremonies, graduates joined family and friends in Theatre Eighteen and the Arts Academy for a celebratory drinks’ reception.