Celebrations for NSCG Higher Education students at their 2024 Graduation Ceremony
On Thursday 4 July, the achievements of Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group’s (NSCG) Higher Education students were celebrated at the college’s graduation ceremony.
Held at the NSCG Newcastle College Performing Arts Centre, graduates, their family and friends, college staff and key stakeholders came together to mark the students’ academic milestone.
Learners were graduating from Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) courses, in a range of subjects including Business, Computing, Digital Content Creation, Engineering, Health and Social Care, and Performing Arts.
Principal and Chief Executive of NSCG, Craig Hodgson, opened the event and welcomed graduates and their guests to the ceremony.
Rachel Laver, Chief Executive Office of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, was then welcomed to the stage to assist with presenting the graduates with their certificates.
Guests also heard performances from Musical Theatre and Performing Arts students, including a reading of Dr Seuss’ poem ‘Oh, the Places You’ll Go’ and performances of Little Shop of Horrors’ ‘Somewhere That’s Green’ and ‘Seasons of Love’ from the musical Rent.
A number of students also received additional ‘Student of the Year’ accolades, with guests hearing about each recipient’s academic journey.
HND student Verity Bellingham was nominated for her commitment to her Public Services course. Verity had consistently produced work to an excellent standard, as well as always volunteering to assist with extra-curricular activities. On a recent student trip to Krakow, Verity took a lead role in supporting the group whilst they were abroad- particularly impressing staff by supporting another student who struggled to socialise with peers, ensuring she was included with all activities throughout the trip. Verity has secured a place at Staffordshire University, where she will study for a degree in Policing and Criminal Investigation.
Craig Ostrouchow, HNC Engineering student, received the Student of the Year award for demonstrating an incredible work ethic. Throughout his time at NSCG, Craig showed unwavering positivity despite facing his own personal challenges and balancing his studies with his Higher-Level Apprenticeship programme. Craig has excelled in both his studies and in his position at Capula, where he has recently been promoted to Project Manager.
Craig Hodgson, Principal and Chief Executive at NSCG Stafford College, said: “Graduation ceremonies are a key milestone in the life of the graduate, and provide a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
“It is a privilege to be a small part of the learners’ journey, and it gives me enormous pride to be able to celebrate such a special occasion.
“This achievement is a testament to all the hard work and perseverance our students have shown over their time at NSCG and I wish every single graduate all the very best for their future, wherever it takes them.”
