University Centre Somerset’s annual graduation saw over 130 students don their gowns and mortar boards and fill the seats of St Mary’s Church in Bridgwater.

More than 500 students completed their university level or professional qualifications in 2018, in subjects ranging from Agriculture to Public Services and Accounting to Motorsport Engineering.

More than 500 guests attended the two events including staff, parents, VIPs and governors, all keen to celebrate the success of the students.

Professor Julian Chaudhuri, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student Experience at the University of Plymouth, and this year’s guest speaker, addressed the graduates, their friends and families about the fantastic partnership the College has with the University of Plymouth. He also explored how hard work and dedication are important factors of success.

Two year’s ago, the College introduced five student awards to recognise the outstanding commitment and dedication shown by the students. The Prizes are: Student of the Year, Principal’s Prize, Best Final Project or Dissertation, the Pearson Prize and a Plymouth University Academic Partnership Prize.

• Best Final Project or Dissertation which was won by Edward Fursdon who studied Oxford Brookes University’s Bachelor of Science Degree in Countryside Management.
• The Pearson Prize was awarded to Chloe Stephens who completed her Apprenticeship with DE&S and studied Pearson’s Higher National Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

The remaining prizes will be awarded at University Centre Somerset’s second Graduation event in Taunton on 26 October.

Andy Berry, Principal and Chief Executive of Bridgwater & Taunton College, said,

“The University Centre Somerset Graduation is one of the highlights of the academic year for our higher education students. It is an opportunity for them to celebrate and share their hard work and success with families, friends and lecturers. Thank you to St Mary’s Church for allowing us to hold our ceremonies in such a beautiful setting, it really helps to provide a great sense of community spirit. Congratulations to all of the graduates on their achievements and I wish them all a bright and prosperous future.”

To see more photos from Graduation 2018, please click here.