More than 100 students from Wiltshire College & University Centre marked the completion of their higher education studies with a day of celebration at Salisbury Cathedral.
Under bright blue skies, 104 graduates paraded through the city’s streets before receiving their degrees and awards in front of family and friends inside the historic cathedral.
Principal and Chief Executive Iain Hatt congratulated the students, saying, “Earning your qualification is no small feat. Many of you have balanced the demands of home, work and study – making your success even more commendable. Your dedication has brought you to this important milestone and I hope you take great pride in all that you have achieved.”
The day began at Salisbury Playhouse, where students collected their caps and gowns, posed for photographs and reunited with classmates. The group reflected the diversity of the college’s courses, with young people at the start of their careers celebrating alongside mature students who had combined study with full-time work and family life.
Among them was Sally-Ann Nelson from Calne, who gave up a career as a theatrical make-up artist to study for a CIPD Level 5 qualification in HR. “The knowledge I have gained has been amazing – it’s going to really jump start my career,” she said.
For 21-year-old Henry Negus, the college’s Motorsport Technology degree inspired him to progress to a Masters in Race Car Aerodynamics at the University of Southampton. “I really enjoyed the course at Castle Combe,” he said. “It made me want to do more.”
Lizzie Clancy, 36, from Warminster, juggled work and family life to complete her AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting. “It was challenging but worth it,” she said. “Having a day like this is lovely – I didn’t go to university when I was younger but now I can share it with my family.”
Macy Murton-Phelps, 20, from Melksham, became the first in her family to gain a degree after completing an HND in Public Services, Crime and Criminal Justice. “Having a day like today is massive,” she said. “I’m going to work in probation after learning about it on the course.”
Her classmate Abigail Hooper, 20, from Broughton Gifford, described the experience as one of the best years of her life. “It was challenging but we had loads of support, and I’ve made friends for life,” she said.
For Harry Baird, 32, from Salisbury, an HNC in Engineering has transformed his career. “When I got offered the chance to study, I thought it was time to grow up and do something serious – and I haven’t looked back,” he said. “Now I’ve got a better income and more opportunities. The future looks better than before.”
Mr Hatt also paid tribute to the families and employers who supported the students, while Chair of Governors Paddy Bradley MBE encouraged graduates to continue learning. “Think of today not as the end of your studies, but the launch of your lifelong learning journey,” he said.
For more information about higher education courses and apprenticeships, visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk.
