The achievements of more than 80 City of Bath College graduates have been celebrated at a recent formal procession and ceremony at Bath Abbey.
Students wore the traditional academic dress of caps and gowns to be awarded their qualifications in front of family and friends.
It was the second year the College had hosted its graduation at Bath Abbey and the formal procession and ceremony was enjoyed by more than 350 people.
Graduates had completed courses at Level 4 or higher in a wide range of subjects including computing, early years, fashion and textiles, music and professional qualifications.
College Principal Matt Atkinson said he had the utmost respect for HE students who balanced work, life and study commitments.
He said: “We have engineers, computing specialists, accountants, teachers, construction professionals, creative industries specialists, early years professionals and others graduating – a sign that our College is focused on delivering the skills vital to the West of England economy.
“Colleges are the engine room of the UK economy, we have been central to the economic recovery and we will be central to ensuring industry has a ready supply of staff for the future.”
Among those graduating was Owen Vincent who is a step closer to his dream career as a photographer after completing a Foundation Degree in Digital Design.
The 19-year-old moved to Bath from Tewkesbury for the two year course as he was keen to turn his hobby into a career.
Owen said: “I did photography at A-Level just because I was interested in other people’s photos, but I fell in love with everything about the subject.
“Now I’m really into photography, I can’t get enough of it. What started as a hobby is now going to be my future.
“It’s a great feeling to graduate, it feels like I’ve really achieved something and I’m ready for the next step in life.”
Owen is going on to Bath Spa University to gain a BA in Photography and said: “I’d love to be a professional photographer, maybe at a magazine. I’m excited about the future.”
Graduate Daniel Morrison says he’s going to miss City of Bath College as it’s felt like a ‘home from home’ for the last four years.
He studied a BTEC then a Foundation Degree in Music Production and it’s his ambition to work in the dance music industry.
Daniel, 20, said: “I didn’t really like school but coming to college completely changed my perception of education.
“I’ve been learning about something I enjoy and it makes all the difference.
“I’ve loved the course, the teachers are wonderful, I’ve learnt so much from them and it’s thanks to them that doors have been opened.”
Daniel, who studied while working as a hotel concierge, is going on to study music at the University of West of England.
Carole Stott, chair of governors at City of Bath College, said it was a special day to formally recognise everything the students had accomplished.
She told students: “The certificates you have are of real value, they are going to play an important part in your futures.
“These qualifications are tickets to your future success but it doesn’t mean the end of your success or the end of your learning.
“Today is a day to celebrate and enjoy, then you can build on your success in the future.”
City of Bath College is able to provide a wide range of well-respected higher education courses through its excellent working relationship with the University of Bath and Bath Spa University.
