Higher Education graduates from Bath College celebrated their success at their Graduation Ceremony last Thursday, 18th July, with more than 60 students gathering at the Assembly Rooms.
The students have all completed degree level and higher education courses, including programmes validated by the University of Bath and The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) among others.
The ceremony opened with a Civic Procession made up of the Senior Management Team of the College, Heads of Departments, academic staff, Governors, and The Mayor of Bath, Councillor Gerry Curran, led by the City Sword-Bearer and two Mace-Bearers.
Once everyone was seated, guests were welcomed by Laurel Penrose, Principal and CEO of Bath College, and certificates were handed out to graduates from Carole Stott, the Chair of Governors.
Keynote speaker, Professor Sue Rigby, Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University, inspired the crowds with her words: “Reading through the graduation programme I realised your degrees are an exact list of the skills that are needed in this region.
“We [Bath Spa University] really value the relationship we have with the college. You are a fantastic college. You are an asset to your city.”
After the ceremony, the graduates gathered outside the Assembly Rooms and threw their hats in the air to the cheers of guests and passers-by.
A drinks and canape reception was held at Woods restaurant, where the graduates and their families continued their celebration.
Laurel Penrose, Principal and CEO of Bath College said: “It has been a wonderful day. Behind each graduate, I’m sure, is a dream. One that is full of hope and one that is borne of ambition, aspiration.
“Our students remind us that success comes to those who work – and I know the extra work they have undertaken through their studies will, at times, have been difficult and gruelling, but they have made it through and we are incredibly proud.”
