Students and higher apprentices from Chesterfield College celebrated their graduation last week after studying for university-level qualifications. Proud friends, family and employers of almost 100 graduates attended a special ceremony at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield.

Graduates received their university-level qualifications in a wide range of subjects from computing to criminal justice. Graduates celebrated achieving a range of higher national certificates and diplomas as well as foundation, full and postgraduate degrees in engineering, public services, social care, education, sports and creative media. Those celebrating success with higher level professional qualifications in business, management, accounting and education were also recognised in the ceremony.

Dion Cowen (right), from Chesterfield, graduated with a first class BSc Hons in Sports Coaching was chosen to give the student vote of thanks at the ceremony. She said: “The fact that we have made it here to receive our awards is just a testament to our perseverance and commitment to excellence. It is also thanks to the camaraderie, care and encouragement we received from each other, and from the staff at college, who have helped us to reach this special moment. Massive congratulations to all my fellow graduates.”

Dion is now studying for a post-graduate certificate in education and has a teaching placement working at Chesterfield College. Her end goal is to work in prisons or a similar environment where she can bring her knowledge of sports psychology to make a difference to people.

Higher apprentice, Gavin Glidewell, from Bolsover, graduated with a Diploma in Management and Leadership. He said: “Starting this education programme so long after leaving sixth form felt very daunting, but I have to say the support and encouragement of my line manager and tutor has been fantastic! The impact of studying at university-level has been great. I wanted to continue my career progression, and I really believe completing this diploma has supported my recent promotion within the business.”

It was a double celebration for Ellie Anderton-Brown, who graduated with a HND in Public Services and also found out she was one step closer to starting her dream job. On the same day as her graduation ceremony, Ellie passed a fitness and medical test as part of the process of becoming a Police Constable. She said: “It feels amazing to be graduating today and to know that the hard work I have put into studying, the 500 hours of volunteering I have done with the police force and the applications process to become a police constable has all paid off. I will be going for my uniform fitting next week then I have a 17 week training programme to complete.”

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of the Chesterfield College Group congratulated the graduates at the ceremony. She said; “Today is about celebrating all that you have achieved throughout your time in education. On behalf of the Chesterfield College Group and our partner universities, I would like to congratulate each and every one of you on reaching your own personal goals; your dedication and hard work has finally resulted in today’s incredible achievement. We have thoroughly enjoyed our partnership with you and, on behalf of the staff at the college; I wish you every success in your future career.”

Chesterfield College works alongside a range of partners to deliver university-level and professional courses, including Sheffield Hallam University, University of Derby and Pearson. This allows people who want to work towards higher education qualifications the opportunity to access an affordable and quality provision on their doorstep.

To find out more about the courses available at the University Centre visit www.chesterfield.ac.uk/university-level/