Newbury College held its annual Higher Education Graduation and Further Education Awards Ceremony on Tuesday 8 December to celebrate the success of its students. The College was delighted that former Newbury College student, and Chief Executive Officer of insurance market Lloyd's of London, Inga Beale, attended as the guest speaker.
Inga Beale talked about how her career has progressed since studying Business Studies at the old Newbury College site in the 1980s. The evening was a celebration of students who have achieved Higher Education qualifications, Level 4 and above, and Further Education learners who received awards to recognise their hard work and dedication to their courses.
The Graduation Ceremony was attended by governors and VIPS guests including: the Mayor of Newbury Councillor Howard Bairstow; the Mayoress of Newbury Councillor Jo Day; the Mayor of Thatcham Councillor Shelia Ellison; and West Berkshire Council Chairman Peter Argyle.
Dr Anne Murdoch OBE, Newbury College Principal said The Newbury College HE Graduation and FE Awards Ceremony is a celebration of the achievements of our hardworking students and staff and an opportunity for their family and friends to recognise the successes of individuals. We a grateful to all employers who sponsored the FE awards for their commitment to supporting the College and for their generous
donations. This year was particularly special as we welcomed back Inga Beale, former Newbury College student and CEO of Lloyd's as our guest speaker who presented certificates and awards to Graduates.
Higher Education students from courses including Computing, Engineering and Teacher Training graduated this year. The Further Education Awards are sponsored by local employers including, Apple Print & Creative, City Motor Holdings, David Lloyd Leisure, David Wilson Homes Euro Car Parts, Fiona Crutchley, Hogan Music, Kaizen Systems, M&B Beauty and Hair Supplies, Priory Thornford Park Hospital, Roc Technologies, Salon Services, The Breeze, The Castle School, The Corn Exchange, The Vineyard Group, West Berkshire Council and Wickes Newbury.
After the retirement of long-standing governor Tony Allen, this year the College name the Newbury College Learner of the Year Award in his name. The Tony Allen Award for High Achievement' was awarded to Luke Admans.
Following the ceremony, graduates, award winners and guests were treated to a drinks reception and canapé refreshments handmade by the College's catering students.