More than 1,000 students from across NCG celebrated the successful completion of their studies this summer as graduation ceremonies took place in Newcastle and Kidderminster.
The events brought together graduates from Carlisle College, Kidderminster College and Newcastle College University Centre to mark a significant milestone in their educational journeys. Family, friends, lecturers and supporters gathered to recognise the hard work, resilience and determination that had helped students reach this important moment.
Newcastle College University Centre hosted its largest-ever graduation celebrations I July, with almost 1,000 graduates crossing the stage across six ceremonies. Students received qualifications ranging from Foundation Degrees and Bachelor's Degrees to Master's Degrees, representing disciplines including Engineering, Health, Business, Education, Creative Industries, Digital Technologies and the Arts.
The celebrations welcomed singer and performer Joe McElderry as Guest of Honour on the second day of ceremonies. A former Newcastle College student and Patron of the College's Performance Academy, Joe reflected on his own educational and professional journey as he addressed graduates before becoming the first recipient of an Honorary Degree from Newcastle College University Centre.
Graduates also heard from guest speakers representing sectors including business, health, aviation, culture and the creative industries, who shared their experiences and insights as students prepared to take the next steps in their careers.
Students from Carlisle College graduated alongside their peers in Newcastle, celebrating the successful completion of their higher education studies and joining fellow graduates in marking this important achievement.
Meanwhile, in Kidderminster, students completing degree-level programmes came together with family, friends and staff to celebrate their achievements. Following the formal ceremonies, graduates gathered at Kidderminster Town Hall to reflect on their journeys, recognise their success and look ahead to future opportunities.
Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College and Executive Lead for Higher Education across NCG, said: “Graduation is one of my favourite days in the calendar because it gives us the opportunity to stop and celebrate. It brings together graduates, families, friends and colleagues to recognise an important achievement and everything it has taken to reach this moment.
“Watching almost 1,000 graduates cross the stage over the two days was a reminder of the talent, determination and ambition that exists across Newcastle College University Centre. Behind every graduate is a team, and this was a celebration of everyone who has played a part in that success. Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and I wish every one of our graduates the very best for the future.”
The graduation ceremonies showcased the talent, ambition and potential of students across NCG. As graduates take their next steps into employment, further study and professional practice, they join a growing network of alumni making a positive impact in communities and industries across the UK and beyond.