HE Graduation

Hundreds of proud parents,

partners, friends and families filled the pews of Bristol’s stunning cathedral on Saturday 20 November for not just one but two higher education graduation ceremonies!

We welcomed more than 300 higher education students from the past two academic years to dress in their caps and gowns for the illustrious ceremony marking the end of their studies at City of Bristol College. Graduation guests enjoyed keynote speeches from Peaches Golding OBE, The Lord-Lieutenant of the City and County of Bristol, and The Rt Hon Lord Mayor of Bristol Cllr Steve Smith, as well as speeches from dignitaries from our university partners.

The event also celebrated two students who were awarded a special graduation prize. Tanyka Griffiths, who graduated from the Health and Social Care Management degree, was presented with the Martin Gibbs Memorial Prize. Tanyka has overcome many challenges throughout her educational journey, and after completing her Level 3 Health and Social Care with us, she gained the confidence to progress onto a Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care Practice. A formal dyslexia diagnosis allowed Tanyka to understand the underlying reasons for her previous difficulties and she has worked incredibly hard to improve her academic skills. Her determination to improve prospects for herself and her young daughter has been fierce and impressive, and she now has a renewed passion for her chosen area and increasing self-belief.

Shaun Canning was named the winner of the Plymouth University Academic Partnership Prize. The FdA Graphic Design and Digital Arts student was celebrated for his achievements during his studies on the University of Plymouth course.

Shaun has come an exceptional distance since enrolling and, after suffering a great personal hardship for a number of years, he has shown great resilience and fortitude. He made the most of the opportunities to pursue his passion, exhibiting a positivity towards learning and spreading his enthusiasm for the subject among his colleagues.

Congratulations to all of our 2021 graduates, and to Tanyka and Shaun for their well-deserved award wins.